Camera actuator and camera module comprising same

Abstract

Disclosed in an embodiment is a camera module comprising: a first camera actuator and a second camera actuator; a shield can disposed outside the first camera actuator and the second camera actuator; and a bracket disposed outside the shield can, wherein the shield can includes a plurality of welded parts spaced apart from each other, and each of the plurality of welded parts includes a plurality of protrusion parts.

Description

Camera actuator and camera module including the same

[0001] The embodiment relates to a camera actuator and a camera module including the same.

[0002] A camera is a device that captures images or videos of a subject, and is installed in portable devices, drones, vehicles, etc. Camera modules may have an image stabilization (IS) function that compensates for or prevents image shaking caused by the user's movements to improve image quality, an auto focusing (AF) function that automatically adjusts the distance between the image sensor and the lens to align the focal length of the lens, and a zooming function that increases or decreases the magnification of a distant subject and captures it using a zoom lens.

[0003] The shield can for protecting the camera and the bracket for assembling it are separate and must be assembled separately, which requires additional processes to secure the shield can and bracket, and management of additional auxiliary materials (such as epoxy) is required. Applying epoxy requires a separate space, which increases the size of the camera module. Furthermore, using epoxy during the assembly of the shield can and bracket can reduce the bonding strength between the two.

[0004] The embodiment provides a camera module capable of reducing size.

[0005] In addition, a camera actuator and a camera module including the same are provided to simplify the process and simplify auxiliary materials.

[0006] In addition, a camera actuator having increased durability and increased bonding strength between components and a camera module including the same are provided.

[0007] The problem to be solved in the embodiment is not limited to this, and it can be said that the purpose or effect that can be understood from the solution or embodiment of the problem described below is also included.

[0008] A camera module according to an embodiment includes a first camera actuator and a second camera actuator; a shield can disposed outside the first camera actuator and the second camera actuator; and a bracket disposed outside the shield can, wherein the shield can includes a plurality of welded portions spaced apart from each other, and each of the plurality of welded portions may include a plurality of protrusions.

[0009] The above plurality of protrusions may protrude from the outer surface of the shield can toward the inner surface of the bracket.

[0010] The plurality of protrusions included in one of the above welded portions may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

[0011] The plurality of welded portions may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction or in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0012] The shield can may include first to fourth sides, and the plurality of welds may include first to tenth welds arranged on the first to fourth sides.

[0013] The first side and the second side may be spaced apart in the third direction, the third side and the fourth side may be spaced apart in the second direction, the first weld portion and the second weld portion may be disposed on the first side, and the third weld portion and the fourth weld portion may be disposed on the second side.

[0014] The distance between the first weld portion and the second weld portion in the second direction may be greater than the distance between the third weld portion and the fourth weld portion in the second direction.

[0015] The above bracket may include an area that does not overlap with the shield can in the second direction or the third direction.

[0016] The above shield can may include a bent portion bent in a direction toward the inner surface of the bracket.

[0017] The above bracket may include a plurality of stepped portions protruding toward the outer surface of the shield can.

[0018] The plurality of step portions may contact the plurality of protrusions of the plurality of weld portions.

[0019] The above-mentioned bending portion may not overlap with the first welding portion to the fourth welding portion in the first direction.

[0020] The above plurality of protrusions may include a cylindrical shape.

[0021] The above welding part can be joined to the bracket through laser welding.

[0022] The first side and the second side are short sides of the shield can, the third side and the fourth side are long sides of the shield can, and two of the welding portions may be arranged on the short side of the shield can, and four of the welding portions may be arranged on the long side of the shield can.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the embodiment may provide a camera module capable of reducing size.

[0024] In addition, a camera actuator and a camera module including the same can be provided to simplify the process and simplify auxiliary materials.

[0025] In addition, a camera actuator having increased durability and increased bonding strength between components and a camera module including the same can be provided.

[0026] The various advantageous and beneficial effects of the present invention are not limited to the above-described contents, and will be more easily understood in the course of explaining specific embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0028] Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0029] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the camera module cut along line AA' in Fig. 1.

[0030] Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0031] Fig. 5 is a front view of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0032] Fig. 6 is a rear view of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0033] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a bracket and shield can of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0034] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a bracket of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0035] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a shield can of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0036] Fig. 10 is a front view of a shield can of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0037] Fig. 11 is a top view of a shield can of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0038] Figures 12 and 13 are side views of a shield can of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0039] Fig. 14 is a bottom view of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0040] Fig. 15 is an enlarged drawing of a portion of the bracket and shield can of the camera module according to the embodiment.

[0041] Fig. 16 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the section cut along BB' in Fig. 7.

[0042] Fig. 17 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the section cut along CC' in Fig. 7.

[0043] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0044] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a vehicle to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0045] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0046] However, the technical idea of ​​the present invention is not limited to some of the embodiments described, but can be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, one or more of the components between the embodiments can be selectively combined or substituted for use.

[0047] In addition, terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as having a meaning that can be generally understood by a person of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined and described, and terms that are commonly used, such as terms defined in a dictionary, may be interpreted in consideration of the contextual meaning of the relevant technology.

[0048] Additionally, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are intended to describe the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0049] In this specification, the singular may also include the plural unless specifically stated otherwise in the phrase, and when it is described as “A and / or at least one (or more) of B, C”, it may include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B, C.

[0050] Additionally, in describing components of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used.

[0051] These terms are intended only to distinguish one component from another, and are not intended to limit the nature, order, or sequence of the component.

[0052] And, when a component is described as being 'connected', 'coupled' or 'connected' to another component, it may include not only cases where the component is directly connected, coupled or connected to the other component, but also cases where the component is 'connected', 'coupled' or 'connected' by another component between the component and the other component.

[0053] Additionally, when described as being formed or arranged "above or below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where the two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or arranged between the two components. Furthermore, when expressed as "above" or "below", it can include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction based on one component.

[0054] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the camera module taken along line AA' in FIG. 1.

[0055] 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 (1100), a second camera actuator (1200), and a circuit board (1300). Here, the first camera actuator (1100) may be used interchangeably as a first actuator, and the second camera actuator (1200) may be used interchangeably as a second actuator.

[0056] The cover (CV) can cover the first camera actuator (1100) and the second camera actuator (1200). The coupling force between the first camera actuator (1100) and the second camera actuator (1200) can be improved by the cover (CV).

[0057] Furthermore, the cover (CV) may be made of a material that blocks electromagnetic waves. Accordingly, the first camera actuator (1100) and the second camera actuator (1200) within the cover (CV) can be easily protected.

[0058] And the first camera actuator (1100) may be an OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) actuator. For example, the first camera actuator (1100) may move an optical member in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0059] The first camera actuator (1100) 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.”

[0060] The first camera actuator (1100) can change the path of light. In an embodiment, the first camera actuator (1100) can vertically change the path of light through an internal optical member (e.g., a prism or mirror). 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), and optical image stabilization (OIS) functions.

[0061] However, it is not limited thereto, and the first camera actuator (1100) can change the optical path vertically or at a predetermined angle multiple times.

[0062] The second camera actuator (1200) may be positioned behind the first camera actuator (1100). The second camera actuator (1200) may be coupled to the first camera actuator (1100). The coupling between the two may be achieved in various ways.

[0063] Additionally, the second camera actuator (1200) may be a zoom actuator or an auto focus (AF) actuator. For example, the second camera actuator (1200) 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. In addition, one or more lenses may independently or individually move along the optical axis direction to perform AF.

[0064] The circuit board (1300) may be placed at the rear end of the second camera actuator (1200). The circuit board (1300) may be electrically connected to the second camera actuator (1200) and the first camera actuator (1100). In addition, there may be a plurality of circuit boards (1300). The circuit board (1300) may include an image sensor (IS), and the image sensor (IS) may be fixed inside the camera module (1000). In addition, the circuit board (1300) may be electrically connected to another sensor module within the terminal or a processor of the terminal. Through this, the above-described camera actuator and the camera module including the same may transmit and receive various signals within the terminal. The circuit board (1300) may include a circuit board having a wiring pattern that can be electrically connected, such as a rigid printed circuit board (Rigid PCB), a flexible printed circuit board (Flexible PCB), or a rigid flexible printed circuit board (Rigid Flexible PCB). However, the present invention is not limited to these types.

[0065] A camera module according to an embodiment may be comprised of a single or multiple camera modules. For example, the multiple camera modules may include a first camera module and a second camera module.

[0066] And the first camera module may include a single or multiple actuators. For example, the first camera module may include a first camera actuator (1100) and a second camera actuator (1200).

[0067] And the second camera module may be placed in a predetermined housing (not shown) and may include an actuator (not shown) capable of driving a lens unit. 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, the camera actuator may be referred to as an actuator or the like in the present specification. In addition, a camera module composed of a plurality of camera modules may be mounted in various electronic devices such as a mobile terminal.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 3, a camera module according to an embodiment may include a first camera actuator (1100) having an OIS function and a second camera actuator (1200) having a zooming function and an AF function.

[0069] Light can be incident into the camera module or the first camera actuator through an opening area located on the upper surface of the first camera actuator (1100). That is, the light is incident into the interior of the first camera actuator (1100) along an optical axis direction (e.g., X-axis direction), and the optical path can be changed to a vertical direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) through an optical member. Then, the light can pass through the second camera actuator (1200) and be incident on an image sensor (IS) located at one end of the second camera actuator (1200) (PATH).

[0070] In this specification, the bottom means one side in the first direction. And the first direction is the Y-axis direction in the drawing and can be used interchangeably with the first-axis direction, etc. The second direction is the X-axis direction in the drawing and can be used interchangeably with the second-axis direction, etc. The second direction is a direction perpendicular to the first direction. In addition, the third direction is the Z-axis direction in the drawing and can be used interchangeably with the third-axis direction, etc. And the third direction is a direction perpendicular to both the first direction and the second direction. Here, the third direction (Z-axis direction) corresponds to the direction of the optical axis, and the first direction (Y-axis direction) and the second direction (X-axis direction) are directions perpendicular to the optical axis and can be tilted by the first camera actuator. In addition, in the description of the first camera actuator (1100) below, the optical axis direction is the third direction (Z-axis direction), and the following description will be made based on this.

[0071] Additionally, in the present specification, the inner side may be a direction toward the first camera actuator in the cover (CV), and the outer side may be a direction opposite to the inner side. That is, the first camera actuator and the second camera actuator may be located inside the cover (CV), and the cover (CV) may be located outside the first camera actuator or the second camera actuator. Additionally, in the present specification, the inner side may be a direction toward the first or second camera actuator in the bracket or shield can described later, and the outer side may be a direction opposite to the inner side.

[0072] And by this configuration, the camera module according to the embodiment can improve the spatial limitations of the first camera actuator and the second camera actuator by changing the light path. That is, the camera module according to the embodiment can expand the light path while minimizing the thickness of the camera module in response to the change in the light path. Furthermore, it should be understood that the second camera actuator can also provide a high range of magnification by controlling the focus, etc. in the expanded light path.

[0073] In addition, the camera module according to the embodiment can implement OIS by controlling the optical path through the first camera actuator, thereby minimizing the occurrence of decent or tilt phenomena and producing the best optical characteristics.

[0074] Furthermore, the second camera actuator (1200) may include an optical system and a lens driving unit. For example, the second camera actuator (1200) may be configured with at least one of a first lens assembly, a second lens assembly, a third lens assembly, and a guide pin. In addition, the second camera actuator (1200) may be configured with a coil and a magnet to perform a high-magnification zooming function.

[0075] For example, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly may be moving lenses that move via coils, magnets, and guide pins, and the third lens assembly may be a fixed lens, but is not limited thereto. For example, the third lens assembly may function as a focal point that focuses light at a specific location, and the first lens assembly may function as a variator that refocuses the image focused by the third lens assembly, which is a focal point, at another location. Meanwhile, in the first lens assembly, the distance to the subject or the image distance may change significantly, resulting in a large change in magnification, and the first lens assembly, which is a variator, may play an important role in the change in the focal length or magnification of the optical system. Meanwhile, the image point focused by the first lens assembly, which is a variator, may have a slight difference depending on the location. Accordingly, the second lens assembly may function to compensate for the position of the image focused by the variator. For example, the second lens assembly may perform a compensator function that accurately focuses the point of interest formed by the first lens assembly, which is a variable lens assembly, on the actual image sensor position. For example, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly may be driven by an electromagnetic force resulting from the interaction of a coil and a magnet. The above-described content may be applied to the lens assemblies described later. In addition, the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly may move along the optical axis direction, i.e., the third direction. In addition, the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly may move independently or dependently in the third direction.

[0076] Meanwhile, when an actuator for OIS and an actuator for AF or Zoom are arranged according to an embodiment of the present invention, magnetic interference with the magnet for AF or Zoom can be prevented when the OIS is driven. Since the first driving magnet of the first camera actuator (1100) is arranged separately from the second camera actuator (1200), magnetic interference between the first camera actuator (1100) and the second camera actuator (1200) can be prevented. In this specification, OIS can be used interchangeably with terms such as shake correction, optical image stabilization, optical image correction, and shake correction.

[0077] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, FIG. 5 is a front view of a camera module according to an embodiment, and FIG. 6 is a rear view of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0078] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, a camera module (1000) according to an embodiment may include a first camera actuator (1100), a second camera actuator (1200), a circuit board (1300), a bracket (1400), and a shield can (1500). Hereinafter, descriptions of the first camera actuator (1100), the second camera actuator (1200), and the circuit board (1300) that overlap with the descriptions of FIGS. 1 to 3 will be omitted.

[0079] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a bracket and a shield can of a camera module according to an embodiment, FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a bracket of a camera module according to an embodiment, FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a shield can of a camera module according to an embodiment, and FIG. 10 is a front view of a shield can of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 10, the camera module (1000) may include a bracket (1400) and a shield can (1500).

[0081] The bracket (1400) may be placed on the outside of the camera module (1000). For example, the bracket (1400) may surround the first camera actuator (1100), the second camera actuator (1200), the circuit board (1300), and the shield can (1500) located inside the camera module (1000). With this configuration, the bracket (1400) may absorb external impacts on the camera module (1000) or prevent foreign substances from entering. In other words, the bracket (1400) may improve the reliability of the camera module (1000).

[0082] Specifically, the bracket (1400) may be positioned on the side portion of the camera module (1000). Accordingly, the bracket (1400) may surround the side portions of the first camera actuator (1100), the second camera actuator (1200), the shield can (1500), and the circuit board (1300). Furthermore, the bracket (1400) may protect the shield can (1500) and the circuit board (1300) disposed inside the shield can (1500) from external impact by surrounding the side portion of the shield can (1500). The bracket (1400) may be in contact with the outer surface of the shield can (1500). In addition, the bracket (1400) may include a plurality of step portions (1410) that are in contact with a plurality of protrusions of the shield can (1500). The bracket (1400) may include an open shape so that a shield can (1500) is placed on the inside.

[0083] A shield can (1500) can surround the first camera actuator (1100), the second camera actuator (1200), and the circuit board (1300). The shield can (1400) can surround the first camera actuator (1100) and the second camera actuator (1200) from the outside. The shield can (1500) can be placed on the inside of the bracket (1400). The shield can (1500) can be placed so as to be surrounded by the bracket (1400). The outer surface of the shield can (1500) can be placed adjacent to the inner surface of the bracket (1400). The shield can (1500) may include a form in which one side is open so that a first camera actuator (1100) and a second camera actuator (1200) are placed on the inside.

[0084] The shield can (1500) is arranged on the inside of the bracket (1400) and can come into contact with the bracket (1400). The shield can (1500) can overlap with the bracket (1400) in a second direction or a third direction. The maximum width of the shield can (1500) in the second direction can be smaller than the maximum width of the bracket (1400) in the second direction, and the maximum width of the shield can (1500) in the third direction can be smaller than the maximum width of the bracket (1400) in the third direction. In addition, the maximum width of the shield can (1500) in the first direction can be larger than the maximum width of the bracket (1400) in the first direction. Accordingly, some areas of the shield can (1500) may not overlap with the bracket (1400) in the second direction or the third direction. Additionally, the bracket (1400) may include an area that does not overlap with the shield can (1500) in the second or third direction. That is, the shield can (1500) and the bracket (1400) may be positioned to be offset to a certain extent with respect to the first direction.

[0085] The shield can (1500) may include first to fourth sides (S1, S2, S3, S4) and a top surface (S5). The first side (S1) and the second side (S2) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a third direction. That is, the first side (S1) and the second side (S2) may be sides arranged in a direction perpendicular to the third direction. The width of the first side (S1) in the second direction may be greater than the width of the second side (S2) in the second direction. A groove may be arranged in the first side (S1) for light to enter the image sensor. The first side (S1) and the second side (S2) may be single sides of the shield can (1500).

[0086] In addition, the third side (S3) and the fourth side (S4) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the second direction. That is, the third side (S3) and the fourth side (S4) may be sides arranged in a direction perpendicular to the second direction. The widths of the third side (S3) and the fourth side (S4) in the third direction may be greater than the widths of the first side (S1) and the second side (S2) in the second direction. The third side (S3) and the fourth side (S4) may be long sides of the shield can (1500). The upper surface (S5) may be arranged between the first side to the fourth side (S1, S2, S3, S4).

[0087] Fig. 11 is a top view of a shield can of a camera module according to an embodiment, Figs. 12 and 13 are side views of a shield can of a camera module according to an embodiment, and Fig. 14 is a bottom view of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 14, the shield can (1500) may include a welded portion (1510). The shield can (1500) may include a plurality of welded portions (1510). The plurality of welded portions (1510) may be arranged on the first to fourth side surfaces (S1, S2, S3, S4) of the shield can (1500). The welded portions (1510) may be arranged on the outer surfaces of the first to fourth side surfaces (S1, S2, S3, S4) of the shield can (1500). The plurality of welded portions (1510) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. The welded portions (1510) may be arranged between the outer surface of the shield can (1500) and the inner surface of the bracket (1400). The weld (1510) may include a plurality of protrusions protruding from the outer surface of the shield can (1500) toward the inner surface of the bracket (1400). The weld (1510) may contact the inner surface of the bracket (1400). The weld (1510) may join the outer surface of the shield can (1500) and the inner surface of the bracket (1400) using a laser welding method. The weld (1510) may include a cylindrical shape.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 11, the shield can (1500) may include a first weld portion (1510a) and a second weld portion (1510b). The first weld portion (1510a) and the second weld portion (1510b) may be disposed on a first side (S1) of the shield can (1500). The first weld portion (1510a) and the second weld portion (1510b) may be disposed spaced apart from each other in a second direction. The first weld portion (1510a) and the second weld portion (1510b) may each include a plurality of protrusions. The first weld portion (1510a) may include a first protrusion (p1) and a second protrusion (p2). The first protrusion (p1) and the second protrusion (p2) may be disposed spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The first protrusion (p1) and the second protrusion (p2) may protrude in the second direction. The first protrusion (p1) may be positioned closer to the upper surface of the shield can (1500) than the second protrusion (p2). The second welded portion (1510b) may include a third protrusion (p3) and a fourth protrusion (p4). The third protrusion (p3) and the fourth protrusion (p4) may be positioned spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The third protrusion (p3) and the fourth protrusion (p4) may protrude in the second direction. The third protrusion (p3) may be positioned closer to the upper surface of the shield can (1500) than the fourth protrusion (p4).

[0090] The first protrusion (p1) and the third protrusion (p3) may overlap in the second direction. In addition, the second protrusion (p2) and the fourth protrusion (p4) may overlap in the second direction. The first side surface (S1) of the shield can (1500) may include a first groove (h1). The first groove (h1) may be arranged between the first welded portion (1510a) and the second welded portion (1510b). The first groove (h1) may be arranged between the second protrusion (p2) and the fourth protrusion (p4). The first groove (h1) may overlap with the second protrusion (p2) and the fourth protrusion (p4) in the second direction, and may not overlap with the first protrusion (p1) and the third protrusion (p3) in the second direction. Additionally, the distance between the second protrusion (p2) and the fourth protrusion (p4) in the second direction may be greater than the distance between the sixth protrusion (p6) and the eighth protrusion (p8) in the second direction. Based on the second direction, the sixth protrusion (p6) and the eighth protrusion (p8) may be positioned between the second protrusion (p2) and the fourth protrusion (p4).

[0091] Referring to FIG. 12, the shield can (1500) may include a third weld portion (1510c) and a fourth weld portion (1510d). The third weld portion (1510c) and the fourth weld portion (1510d) may be disposed on the second side (S2) of the shield can (1500). The third weld portion (1510c) and the fourth weld portion (1510d) may be disposed spaced apart from each other in the second direction. The third weld portion (1510c) and the fourth weld portion (1510d) may each include a plurality of protrusions. The third weld portion (1510c) may include a fifth protrusion (p5) and a sixth protrusion (p6). The fifth protrusion (p5) and the sixth protrusion (p6) may be disposed spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The fifth protrusion (p5) and the sixth protrusion (p2) may protrude in the second direction. The fifth protrusion (p5) may be positioned closer to the upper surface of the shield can (1500) than the sixth protrusion (p6). The fourth welded portion (1510d) may include a seventh protrusion (p7) and an eighth protrusion (p8). The seventh protrusion (p7) and the eighth protrusion (p8) may be positioned spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The seventh protrusion (p7) and the eighth protrusion (p8) may protrude in the second direction. The seventh protrusion (p7) may be positioned closer to the upper surface of the shield can (1500) than the eighth protrusion (p8).

[0092] The fifth protrusion (p5) and the seventh protrusion (p7) may overlap in the second direction. In addition, the sixth protrusion (p6) and the eighth protrusion (p8) may overlap in the second direction. The distance between the third weld portion (1510c) and the fourth weld portion (1510d) in the second direction may be smaller than the distance between the first weld portion (1510a) and the second weld portion (1510b) in the second direction. The third weld portion (1510c) and the fourth weld portion (1510d) may be positioned between the first weld portion (1510a) and the second weld portion (1510b) based on the second direction. In addition, the third weld portion (1510c) and the fourth weld portion (1510d) may protrude in a direction facing the first weld portion (1510a) and the second weld portion (1510b).

[0093] Referring to FIG. 13, the shield can (1500) may include fifth to eighth weld portions (1510e, 1510f, 1510g, 1510h). The fifth to eighth weld portions (1510e, 1510f, 1510g, 1510h) may be arranged on a third side (S3) of the shield can (1500). The fifth to eighth weld portions (1510e, 1510f, 1510g, 1510h) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the third direction. The fifth to eighth weld portions (1510e, 1510f, 1510g, 1510h) may each include a plurality of protrusions. The fifth weld portion (1510e) may include a ninth protrusion (p9) and a tenth protrusion (p10). The ninth protrusion (p9) and the tenth protrusion (p10) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The ninth protrusion (p9) may be arranged closer to the upper surface of the shield can (1500) than the tenth protrusion (p10). The sixth weld portion (1510f) may include an eleventh protrusion (p11) and a twelfth protrusion (p12). The eleventh protrusion (p11) and the twelfth protrusion (p12) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The eleventh protrusion (p11) may be arranged closer to the upper surface of the shield can (1500) than the twelfth protrusion (p12). The seventh weld (1510g) may include a thirteenth protrusion (p13) and a fourteenth protrusion (p14). The thirteenth protrusion (p13) and the fourteenth protrusion (p14) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The thirteenth protrusion (p13) may be arranged closer to the upper surface of the shield can (1500) than the fourteenth protrusion (p14). The eighth weld (1510h) may include a fifteenth protrusion (p15) and a sixteenth protrusion (p16). The fifteenth protrusion (p15) and the sixteenth protrusion (p16) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The fifteenth protrusion (p15) may be arranged closer to the upper surface of the shield can (1500) than the sixteenth protrusion (p16).

[0094] The eleventh protrusion (p11), the thirteenth protrusion (p13), and the fifteenth protrusion (p15) may overlap in a third direction. In addition, the twelfth protrusion (p12), the fourteenth protrusion (p14), and the sixteenth protrusion (p16) may overlap in a third direction. The ninth protrusion (p9) may not overlap with the eleventh protrusion (p11), the thirteenth protrusion (p13), and the fifteenth protrusion (p15) in the third direction. In addition, the tenth protrusion (p10) may not overlap with the twelfth protrusion (p12), the fourteenth protrusion (p14), and the sixteenth protrusion (p16) in the third direction. The third side (S3) of the shield can (1500) may include a second groove (h2). The second groove (h2) may be positioned between the sixth weld portion (1510f) and the seventh weld portion (1510g). The second groove (h2) may overlap the sixth weld portion (1510f) and the seventh weld portion (1510g) in the third direction.

[0095] Referring to FIG. 14, the shield can (1500) may include ninth to twelfth weld portions (1510i, 1510j, 1510k, 1510l). The ninth to twelfth weld portions (1510i, 1510j, 1510k, 1510l) may be arranged on the fourth side (S4) of the shield can (1500). The ninth to twelfth weld portions (1510i, 1510j, 1510k, 1510l) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the third direction. The ninth to twelfth weld portions (1510i, 1510j, 1510k, 1510l) may each include a plurality of protrusions. The ninth weld (1510i) may include a seventeenth protrusion (p17) and an eighteenth protrusion (p18). The seventeenth protrusion (p17) and the eighteenth protrusion (p18) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a first direction. The seventeenth protrusion (p17) may be arranged closer to the upper surface of the shield can (1500) than the eighteenth protrusion (p18). The tenth weld (1510j) may include a nineteenth protrusion (p19) and a twentieth protrusion (p20). The nineteenth protrusion (p19) and the twentieth protrusion (p20) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The nineteenth protrusion (p19) may be arranged closer to the upper surface of the shield can (1500) than the twentieth protrusion (p20). The eleventh welded portion (1510k) may include a twenty-first protrusion (p21) and a twenty-second protrusion (p22). The twenty-first protrusion (p21) and the twenty-second protrusion (p22) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a first direction. The twenty-first protrusion (p21) may be arranged closer to the upper surface of the shield can (1500) than the twenty-second protrusion (p22). The twelfth welded portion (1510l) may include a twenty-third protrusion (p23) and a twenty-fourth protrusion (p24). The twenty-third protrusion (p23) and the twenty-fourth protrusion (p24) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The twenty-third protrusion (p23) may be arranged closer to the upper surface of the shield can (1500) than the twenty-fourth protrusion (p24).

[0096] The 19th protrusion (p19), the 21st protrusion (p21), and the 23rd protrusion (p23) may overlap in a third direction. In addition, the 20th protrusion (p20), the 22nd protrusion (p22), and the 24th protrusion (p24) may overlap in a third direction. The 17th protrusion (p17) may not overlap with the 19th protrusion (p19), the 21st protrusion (p21), and the 23rd protrusion (p23) in the third direction. In addition, the 18th protrusion (p18) may not overlap with the 20th protrusion (p20), the 22nd protrusion (p22), and the 24th protrusion (p24) in the third direction. The fourth side surface (S4) of the shield can (1500) may include a third groove (h3). The third groove (h3) may be positioned between the ninth weld (1510i) and the tenth weld (1510j). The third groove (h3) may overlap the ninth weld (1510i) in the third direction.

[0097] FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of a portion of a bracket and shield can of a camera module according to an embodiment, FIG. 16 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a cross-section cut along line BB' in FIG. 7, and FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a cross-section cut along line CC' in FIG. 7.

[0098] Referring to FIGS. 8, 9, 15, and 17, the bracket (1400) may include a step portion (1410). The bracket (1400) may include a plurality of step portions (1410). The plurality of step portions (1410) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. The plurality of step portions (1410) may each be in contact with a plurality of weld portions (1510). For example, the plurality of step portions (1410) may include first to twelfth step portions that contact first to twelfth weld portions, respectively. The step portions (1410) may protrude from the inner surface of the bracket (1400) toward the outer surface of the shield can (1500). The step portions (1410) may be in contact with the plurality of protrusions. The step portion (1410) can improve the reliability of the shield can (1500) and the bracket (1400) by coming into contact with the welding portion (1510), and can reduce the space between the shield can (1500) and the bracket (1400).

[0099] Referring to FIG. 15, the bracket (1400) may include a first step portion (1410a) and a second step portion (1410b). The first step portion (1410a) may protrude in a third direction from the inner surface of the bracket (1400). The first step portion (1410a) may overlap with the first weld portion (1510a) in the third direction. The first step portion (1410a) may contact the first protrusion portion (p1) and the second protrusion portion (p2) of the first weld portion (1510a). The second step portion (1410b) may protrude in a third direction from the inner surface of the bracket (1400). The second step portion (1410b) may overlap with the second weld portion (1510b) in the third direction. The second step portion (1410b) may be in contact with the third protrusion portion (p3) and the fourth protrusion portion (p4) of the second weld portion (1510b). The first step portion (1410a) and the second step portion (1410b) may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction. In addition, referring to FIG. 17, the bracket (1400) may include a twelfth step portion (1410l). The twelfth step portion (1410l) may protrude in the second direction from the inner surface of the bracket (1400). The twelfth step portion (1410l) may overlap the twelfth weld portion (1510l) in the second direction. The twelfth step portion (1410l) may be in contact with the twenty-third protrusion portion (p23) and the twenty-fourth protrusion portion (p24) of the twelfth weld portion (1510l).

[0100] The shield can (1520) may include a folded portion (1520). The folded portion (1520) may be folded from a side of the shield can (1500) to the outside of the shield can (1500). The folded portion (1520) may be positioned spaced apart from the upper surface of the shield can (1500). The folded portion (1520) may contact the step portion (1410) of the bracket (1400). In addition, referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the folded portion (1520) may not overlap the first to fourth welded portions (1510a, 1510b, 1510c, 1510d) in the first direction. The bending portion (1520) can come into contact with the inner surface and the step portion (1410) of the bracket (1400), thereby improving the reliability of the shield can (15000) and the bracket (1400).

[0101] Referring to FIGS. 7, 16, and 17, the bracket (1400) may include a region that does not overlap with the shield can (1500) in the second or third direction. In addition, the shield can (1500) may include a region that does not overlap with the bracket (1400) in the second or third direction. The bracket (1400) and the shield can (1500) may be arranged with a certain width offset from each other based on the first direction. Accordingly, the bent portion (1520) of the shield can (1500) may be arranged to surround the stepped portion (1410) of the bracket (1400) on the inside of the bracket (1400), thereby improving the reliability of the shield can (1500) and the bracket (1400).

[0102] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 18, the mobile terminal of the embodiment may include a camera module (1000), a flash module (1010), and an autofocus device (1020) provided on the rear.

[0104] The camera module (1000) may include an image capturing function and an autofocus function. For example, the camera module (1000) may include an autofocus function using an image.

[0105] The camera module (1000) processes still or moving image frames obtained by the image sensor in shooting mode or video call mode.

[0106] The processed image frame can be displayed on a predetermined display unit and stored in memory. A camera (not shown) may also be placed on the front of the mobile terminal body.

[0107] For example, the camera module (1000) may include a first camera module and a second camera module, and the first camera module may be capable of implementing OIS together with AF or zoom functions. In addition, the second camera module may be capable of implementing AF, zoom, and OIS functions. In this case, since the first camera module includes both the OIS actuator and the camera actuator described above, miniaturization of the camera module can be easily achieved through changing the optical path.

[0108] The flash module (1010) may include a light-emitting element that emits light internally. The flash module (1010) may be operated by the camera operation of the mobile terminal or by the user's control.

[0109] The autofocus device (1020) may include one of the packages of surface-emitting laser devices as a light-emitting unit.

[0110] The autofocus device (1020) may include an autofocus function using a laser. The autofocus device (1020) may be primarily used in conditions where the autofocus function using the image of the camera module (1000) is degraded, such as at a close range of 10 m or less or in a dark environment.

[0111] The autofocus device (1020) may include a light emitting unit including a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) semiconductor element and a light receiving unit that converts light energy into electrical energy, such as a photodiode.

[0112] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a vehicle to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0113] For example, FIG. 19 is an exterior view of a vehicle equipped with a vehicle driving assistance device to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 19, the vehicle (700) of the embodiment may be equipped with wheels (13FL, 13FR) that rotate by a power source and a predetermined sensor. The sensor may be a camera sensor (2), but is not limited thereto.

[0115] The camera sensor (2) may be a camera sensor to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied. The vehicle (700) of the embodiment can obtain image information through the camera sensor (2) that captures a front image or a surrounding image, and can use the image information to determine a lane non-identification situation and create a virtual lane when the lane is not identified.

[0116] For example, a camera sensor (2) can capture the front of a vehicle (700) to obtain a front image, and a processor (not shown) can analyze an object included in the front image to obtain image information.

[0117] For example, if objects such as a center divider, curb, or street tree, which correspond to a lane, adjacent vehicle, traffic obstruction, or indirect road marking, are captured in an image captured by a camera sensor (2), the processor can detect these objects and include them in the image information. At this time, the processor can obtain distance information from the object detected through the camera sensor (3000) to further supplement the image information.

[0118] The image information may be information about an object captured in the image. The camera sensor (2) may include an image sensor and an image processing module.

[0119] The camera sensor (2) can process still images or moving images obtained by an image sensor (e.g., CMOS or CCD).

[0120] The image processing module can process still images or videos acquired through an image sensor, extract necessary information, and transmit the extracted information to the processor.

[0121] At this time, the camera sensor (2) may include a stereo camera to improve the measurement accuracy of the object and to secure more information such as the distance between the vehicle (700) and the object, but is not limited thereto.

[0122] Although the above description focuses on examples, these are merely examples and do not limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention. For example, each component specifically shown in the examples can be modified and implemented. In addition, differences related to such modifications and applications should be construed as being included within the scope of the present invention defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. First camera actuator and second camera actuator; A shield can disposed outside the first camera actuator and the second camera actuator; and Including a bracket placed on the outside of the above shield can, The above shield can includes a plurality of welded portions spaced apart from each other, A camera module wherein each of the plurality of welded portions includes a plurality of protrusions.

2. In paragraph 1, A camera module in which the plurality of protrusions protrude from the outer surface of the shield can toward the inner surface of the bracket.

3. In paragraph 2, A camera module in which the plurality of protrusions included in one of the above welded portions are arranged spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

4. In paragraph 3, A camera module wherein the plurality of welded portions are spaced apart from each other in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction or in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

5. In paragraph 4, The above shield can includes a first side to a fourth side, A camera module wherein the plurality of welded portions include first to tenth welded portions arranged on the first side to the fourth side.

6. In paragraph 5, The first side and the second side are spaced apart in the third direction, The third side and the fourth side are spaced apart in the second direction, The first welding portion and the second welding portion are arranged on the first side, A camera module wherein the third welding portion and the fourth welding portion are arranged on the second side.

7. In paragraph 6, A camera module wherein the distance between the first weld portion and the second weld portion in the second direction is greater than the distance between the third weld portion and the fourth weld portion in the second direction.

8. In paragraph 4, The above bracket is a camera module including an area that does not overlap with the shield can in the second direction or the third direction.

9. In paragraph 6, The above shield can is a camera module including a bent portion bent in a direction toward the inner surface of the bracket.

10. In paragraph 1, The above bracket is a camera module including a plurality of stepped portions protruding toward the outer surface of the shield can.

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