Camera module comprising guide and electronic device comprising same

Abstract

A camera module comprises: a lens; an autofocus (AF) carrier configured to carry the lens in a direction along an optical axis; and a camera housing configured to accommodate the AF carrier, wherein the AF carrier and the camera housing include a first guide disposed between corner areas and a second guide disposed in one of the corner areas, and a plurality of AF magnets may be disposed on both sides of the first guide.

Description

Camera module including a guide and electronic device including the same

[0001] The disclosure generally relates to a camera module, for example, a camera module including a guide. The disclosure also relates to an electronic device including a camera module.

[0002] A camera module is being developed that includes a guide that guides the movement of an actuator that drives a lens in the direction of the optical axis or substantially orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0003] The related art mentioned above is possessed or acquired during the process of deriving the present disclosure and cannot necessarily be said to be prior art disclosed to the general public prior to the filing of the present disclosure.

[0004] A camera module may include a lens having an optical axis. The camera module may include an autofocus (AF) carrier configured to carry the lens in a direction along the optical axis. The AF carrier may include a plurality of AF carrier corner regions. The AF carrier may include a plurality of AF carrier side walls, each positioned between adjacent AF carrier corner regions. The camera module may include a camera housing configured to receive the AF carrier. The camera housing may include a plurality of housing corner regions. The camera housing may include a plurality of housing side walls, each positioned between adjacent housing corner regions. The camera module may include a first guide configured to guide the AF carrier relative to the camera housing along the optical axis. The first guide may include a first groove disposed in a first AF carrier side wall of the plurality of AF carrier side walls. The first guide may include a second groove disposed on a first housing side wall facing the first groove and facing the first AF carrier side wall among the plurality of housing side walls. The camera module may include a second guide configured to guide the AF carrier relative to the camera housing along the optical axis. The second guide may include a third groove disposed on a first carrier corner region adjacent to the first AF carrier side wall among the plurality of carrier corner regions. The second guide may include a fourth groove disposed on a first housing corner region adjacent to the first housing side wall among the plurality of housing corner regions, facing the third groove.The camera module may include a first AF magnet disposed between the first groove and the first AF carrier corner region. The camera module may include a second AF magnet disposed between the first groove and a second AF carrier corner region opposite the first AF carrier corner region. The camera module may include a first AF coil facing the first AF magnet and disposed between the second groove and the first housing corner region. The camera module may include a second AF coil facing the second AF magnet and disposed between the second groove and a second housing corner region opposite the first housing corner region.

[0005] A camera module may include a lens having an optical axis. The camera module may include an image sensor. The camera module may include a reflector configured to reflect light passing through the lens toward the image sensor. The camera module may include an autofocus (AF) carrier configured to carry the image sensor in a direction along the optical axis. The AF carrier may include first AF carrier side walls positioned between adjacent AF carrier corner regions. The camera module may include a camera housing configured to receive the AF carrier. The camera housing may include a plurality of housing corner regions. The camera housing may include a first housing side wall positioned between adjacent housing corner regions and facing the first AF carrier side wall. The camera module may include a first guide configured to guide the AF carrier relative to the camera housing along the optical axis. The first guide may include a first groove positioned in the first AF carrier side wall. The first guide may include a second groove disposed on a first housing side wall facing the first groove and facing the first AF carrier side wall. The camera module may include a second guide configured to guide the AF carrier relative to the camera housing along the optical axis. The second guide may include a third groove disposed on a first AF carrier corner region adjacent to the first AF carrier side wall. The second guide may include a fourth groove disposed on a first housing corner region facing the third groove and adjacent to the first housing side wall. The camera module may include a first AF magnet disposed between the first groove and the first AF carrier corner region.The camera module may include a second AF magnet disposed in a second AF carrier corner region opposite the first groove and the first AF carrier corner region. The camera module may include a first AF coil facing the first AF magnet and disposed between the second groove and the first housing corner region. The camera module may include a second AF coil facing the second AF magnet and disposed between the second groove and the second housing corner region opposite the first housing corner region.

[0006] The electronic device may include the camera module.

[0007] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a one-way electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an electronic device in another direction according to one embodiment.

[0012] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 is a plan view of a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 is a side view of a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of the camera module of FIG. 7 according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of the camera module of FIG. 6 according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of the camera module of FIG. 6 according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 12 is a side view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 13 is a side view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 14 is a plan view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 15 is a side view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of a portion E1 of the camera module of FIG. 14 according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of the E2 portion of the camera module of FIG. 14 according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of the camera module of FIG. 14 according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 19 is a side view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 20-20 of the camera module of FIG. 19 according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 21 is a plan view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 22 is a side view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 23 is a side view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 24 is a plan view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 25-25 of the camera module of FIG. 24 according to one embodiment.

[0033] Figure 26 is a plan view of a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 27-27 of the camera module of FIG. 26 according to one embodiment.

[0035] Figure 28 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 30 is a side view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0038] Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0039] Figure 32 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0042] The processor (120) may control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) by executing, for example, software (e.g., a program (140)), and may perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculation, the processor (120) may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the command or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store the resulting data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0043] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a part of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0044] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., a processor (120) or a sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., a program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include a volatile memory (132) or a non-volatile memory (134).

[0045] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0046] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0047] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0048] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0049] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0050] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0051] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0052] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0053] A haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0054] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0055] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0056] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0057] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0058] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0059] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0060] In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0061] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0062] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0063] Electronic devices according to the embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments disclosed in this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0064] The embodiments of this document and the terminology used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0065] The term "module" used in the embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0066] Embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the method according to the embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0068] According to embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to embodiments, operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0069] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 2, the camera module (180) may include a lens assembly (210), a flash (220), an image sensor (230), an image stabilizer (240), a memory (250) (e.g., a buffer memory), or an image signal processor (260). The lens assembly (210) may collect light emitted from a subject that is a target of image capturing. The lens assembly (210) may include one or more lenses. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include a plurality of lens assemblies (210). In this case, the camera module (180) may form, for example, a dual camera, a 360-degree camera, or a spherical camera. Some of the plurality of lens assemblies (210) may have the same lens properties (e.g., angle of view, focal length, autofocus, f-number, or optical zoom), or at least one lens assembly may have one or more lens properties that are different from the lens properties of the other lens assemblies. A lens assembly (210) may include, for example, a wide-angle lens or a telephoto lens.

[0071] The flash (220) can emit light used to enhance light emitted or reflected from a subject. According to one embodiment, the flash (220) can include one or more light-emitting diodes (e.g., red-green-blue (RGB) LED, white LED, infrared LED, or ultraviolet LED), or a xenon lamp. The image sensor (230) can acquire an image corresponding to the subject by converting light emitted or reflected from the subject and transmitted through the lens assembly (210) into an electrical signal. According to one embodiment, the image sensor (230) can include one image sensor selected from among image sensors having different properties, such as, for example, an RGB sensor, a black and white (BW) sensor, an IR sensor, or a UV sensor, a plurality of image sensors having the same property, or a plurality of image sensors having different properties. Each image sensor included in the image sensor (230) can be implemented using, for example, a CCD (charged coupled device) sensor or a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) sensor.

[0072] The image stabilizer (240) can move at least one lens or image sensor (230) included in the lens assembly (210) in a specific direction or control the operating characteristics of the image sensor (230) (e.g., adjusting the read-out timing, etc.) in response to the movement of the camera module (180) or the electronic device (101) including the same. This allows compensating for at least some of the negative effects of the movement on the captured image. In one embodiment, the image stabilizer (240) can detect such movement of the camera module (180) or the electronic device (101) by using a gyro sensor (not shown) or an acceleration sensor (not shown) disposed inside or outside the camera module (180). In one embodiment, the image stabilizer (240) can be implemented as, for example, an optical image stabilizer. The memory (250) can temporarily store at least a portion of the image acquired through the image sensor (230) for the next image processing task. For example, when image acquisition is delayed due to the shutter, or when multiple images are acquired at high speed, the acquired original image (e.g., a Bayer-patterned image or a high-resolution image) is stored in the memory (250), and a corresponding copy image (e.g., a low-resolution image) can be previewed through the display module (160). Thereafter, when a specified condition is satisfied (e.g., a user input or a system command), at least a portion of the original image stored in the memory (250) can be acquired and processed, for example, by the image signal processor (260). According to one embodiment, the memory (250) can be configured as at least a portion of the memory (130) or as a separate memory that operates independently therefrom.

[0073] The image signal processor (260) can perform one or more image processing operations on an image acquired through an image sensor (230) or an image stored in a memory (250). The one or more image processing operations may include, for example, depth map generation, 3D modeling, panorama generation, feature point extraction, image synthesis, or image compensation (e.g., noise reduction, resolution adjustment, brightness adjustment, blurring, sharpening, or softening). Additionally or alternatively, the image signal processor (260) may perform control (e.g., exposure time control, read-out timing control, etc.) on at least one of the components included in the camera module (180) (e.g., image sensor (230)). An image processed by the image signal processor (260) may be stored back in the memory (250) for further processing or provided to an external component of the camera module (180) (e.g., memory (130), display module (160), electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)). According to one embodiment, the image signal processor (260) may include at least one of the processors (120). It may be configured as a separate processor that is configured as a part of the processor (120) or operates independently of the processor (120). If the image signal processor (260) is configured as a separate processor from the processor (120), at least one image processed by the image signal processor (260) may be displayed through the display module (160) as is or after undergoing additional image processing by the processor (120).

[0074] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a plurality of camera modules (180), each having different properties or functions. In this case, for example, at least one of the plurality of camera modules (180) may be a wide-angle camera, and at least another may be a telephoto camera. Similarly, at least one of the plurality of camera modules (180) may be a front camera, and at least another may be a rear camera.

[0075] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an electronic device in one direction according to one embodiment. Figure 4 is a perspective view of an electronic device in another direction according to one embodiment.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, an electronic device (301) (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) may include a housing (310) having a first side (310A) (e.g., a front side), a second side (310B) (e.g., a back side), and a third side (310C) (e.g., a side side) surrounding a space between the first side (310A) and the second side (310B). The first side (310A) may be formed by a first plate (311A) that is at least partially transparent. For example, the first plate (311A) may include a glass plate or a polymer plate that includes at least one coating layer. The second side (310B) may be formed by a second plate (311B) that is substantially opaque. For example, the second plate (311B) may be formed of coated or colored glass, ceramic, polymer, metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel (STS), or magnesium), or a combination thereof. The third surface (310C) may be formed by a frame (311C) that is joined to the first plate (311A) and the second plate (311B) and includes a metal and / or polymer. The second plate (311B) and the frame (311C) may be formed monolithically. The second plate (311B) and the frame (311C) may be formed of substantially the same material (e.g., aluminum).

[0077] The electronic device (301) may include an input module (350) (e.g., the input module (150) of FIG. 1). The input module (350) may be disposed on the third surface (310C). The input module (350) may include at least one key input device. For example, the key input device may include one or more mechanical actuators (e.g., buttons), one or more capacitors, and / or one or more inductors.

[0078] The electronic device (301) may include an audio output module (355) (e.g., the audio output module (155) of FIG. 1). The audio output module (355) may be disposed on the third surface (310C). The audio output module (355) may include one or more holes.

[0079] The electronic device (301) may include a display module (361) (e.g., the display module (160) of FIG. 1). The display module (361) may be disposed on the first surface (310A). The display module (361) may be visible through at least a portion of the first plate (311A). The display module (361) may have a shape substantially the same as the shape of the outer edge of the first plate (311A). The edge of the display module (361) may substantially coincide with the outer edge of the first plate (311A). The display module (361) may include a touch detection circuit, a pressure sensor capable of measuring the intensity (pressure) of a touch, and / or a digitizer capable of detecting a magnetic stylus pen. The display module (361) may include a screen display area (361A) that is visually exposed and displays content through pixels. The display area (361A) may include a sensing area (361A-1). The sensing area (361A-1) may overlap with at least a portion of the display area (361A). The sensing area (361A-1) may allow transmission of an input signal related to the sensor module (376) (e.g., the sensor module (176) of FIG. 1 ). The sensing area (361A-1) may display content similarly to the display area (361A) that does not overlap with the sensing area (361A-1). For example, the sensing area (361A-1) may display content while the sensor module (376) is not operating. At least a portion of the camera area (361A-2) may overlap with the display area (361A). The display area (361A) may include the camera area (361A-2). The camera area (361A-2) may allow transmission of an optical signal associated with a first camera module (380A) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1 and / or the camera module (180) of FIG. 2). The camera area (361A-2) may also be referred to as a “display hole.”The camera area (361A-2) may have a substantially circular or oval shape.

[0080] In an embodiment not shown, the display module (361) may include at least one or a combination of an audio module (370), a sensor module (376), a first camera module (380A), or a light-emitting element (not shown) on the back surface (e.g., the +Z-direction surface) of the screen display area (361A). For example, the electronic device (301) may have a camera module (e.g., the first camera module (380A)) positioned on the back surface opposite to at least one of the first surface (310A) (e.g., the front surface) or the third surface (310C) (e.g., the side surface) so as to face the first surface (310A) and / or the third surface (310C). For example, the first camera module (380A) may not be visually exposed to the screen display area (361A) and may include an under display camera (UDC), which may also be referred to as an “under panel camera.”

[0081] The electronic device (301) may include an audio module (370) (e.g., the audio module (170) of FIG. 1). The audio module (370) may be positioned on the third surface (310C). The audio module (370) may obtain sound through at least one hole.

[0082] The electronic device (301) may include a sensor module (376). The sensor module (376) may be disposed on the first surface (310A). The sensor module (376) may form a sensing area (361A-1) in at least a portion of the screen display area (361A). The sensor module (376) may receive an input signal passing through the sensing area (361A-1) and generate an electrical signal based on the received input signal. For example, the input signal may have a specified physical quantity (e.g., heat, light, temperature, sound, pressure, ultrasound). The input signal may include a signal related to a user's biometric information (e.g., a fingerprint).

[0083] The electronic device (301) may include a connection terminal (378) (e.g., the connection terminal (178) of FIG. 1). The connection terminal (378) may be positioned on the third surface (310C). For example, when the electronic device (301) is viewed in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction), the connection terminal (378) may be positioned substantially in the center of the third surface (310C), and the audio output module (355) may be positioned on one side (e.g., the right) with respect to the connection terminal (378).

[0084] The electronic device (301) may include a first camera module (380A) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1 and / or the camera module (180) of FIG. 2). The first camera module (380A) may be disposed on the first surface (310A). At least a portion of the first camera module (380A) may be disposed below the display module (361). The first camera module (380A) may receive an optical signal that passes through the camera area (361A-2).

[0085] The electronic device (301) may include a plurality of second camera modules (380B) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1 and / or the camera module (180) of FIG. 2). The plurality of second camera modules (380B) may be arranged on the second surface (310B). The plurality of second camera modules (380B) may be arranged in a first row in one direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) of the second plate (311B). The plurality of second camera modules (380B) may have different fields of view. For example, the plurality of second camera modules (380B) may include an ultra wide-angle camera, a wide-angle camera, and / or a tele camera.

[0086] The electronic device (301) may include an optical module (380C) (e.g., a flash (220) of FIG. 2). The optical module (380C) may be arranged in a second row substantially parallel to the first row of the plurality of second camera modules (380B) on the second surface (310B). The optical module (380C) may include one or more light-emitting diodes or xenon lamps. The optical module (380C) may include a sensor configured to detect external light. For example, the sensor may include a flicker sensor.

[0087] The electronic device (301) may include a third camera module (380D). The pixels, magnification, and / or field of view of the third camera module (380D) may be different from the pixels, magnification, and / or field of view of at least one second camera module (380B). The third camera module (380D) may be arranged in a second row substantially parallel to the first row of the plurality of second camera modules (380B) on the second surface (310B).

[0088] The electronic device (301) may include a fourth camera module (380E). The fourth camera module (380E), which may also be referred to as a "depth camera" or a "time-of-flight (ToF) camera," may be configured to measure a distance between the fourth camera module (380E) and a subject. For example, the fourth camera module (380E) may be configured to measure the distance using at least one or a combination of ultrasound, infrared, or laser. The fourth camera module (380E) may be arranged in a second row substantially parallel to the first row of the plurality of second camera modules (380B) on the second surface (310B).

[0089] Meanwhile, the embodiments disclosed in this document can be applied to electronic devices of various shapes / forms (e.g., foldable electronic devices, slideable electronic devices, rollable electronic devices, digital cameras, digital video cameras, tablets, note-shaped electronic devices, and other electronic devices) in addition to the electronic devices illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0090] In this document, terms such as "substantially," "approximately," "typically," and "about" when referring to a given parameter, property, or condition may include the extent to which a person of ordinary skill in the art would understand the given parameter, property, or condition to be satisfied with a small degree of variance, such as within acceptable manufacturing tolerances. For example, a particular parameter that is substantially satisfied may be satisfied at least 90% of the time, at least 95% of the time, or at least 99% of the time.

[0091] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a plan view of a camera module according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 is a side view of a camera module according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the camera module of FIG. 7 taken along line 9-9 according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the camera module of FIG. 6 taken along line 10-10 according to an embodiment. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the camera module of FIG. 6 taken along line 11-11 according to an embodiment. FIG. 12 is a side view of a camera module with a camera cover omitted according to an embodiment. FIG. 13 is a side view of a camera module with a camera cover omitted according to an embodiment.

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 13, a camera module (400) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1, the camera module (180) of FIG. 2, and / or the second camera module (380B) of FIGS. 3 and 4) may include a lens assembly (410) (e.g., the lens assembly (210) of FIG. 2). The lens assembly (410) may include at least one lens (411) having an optical axis (A) defined therein. A portion of the optical axis (A) may be defined as a line connecting a center of curvature of a first surface and a center of curvature of an Nth surface (N is a natural number) of at least one lens (411). The lens assembly (410) may include a lens housing (412) configured to accommodate at least one lens (411). The lens housing (412) may also be referred to as a “lens barrel.”

[0093] The camera module (400) may include a camera housing (420). The camera housing (420) may be configured to accommodate one or more camera-related components. The camera housing (420) may include a base frame (421) and a cover frame (422) configured to cover the base frame (421).

[0094] The base frame (421) may include a bottom portion (421A). The bottom portion (421A) may include a housing hole (421F) that allows light passing through at least one lens (411) to pass through an image sensor (not shown).

[0095] The base frame (421) may include a plurality of housing side walls (421B, 421C, 421D, 421E) connected to a bottom portion (421A). A plurality of housing side walls (421B, 421C, 421D, 421E) include a first housing side wall (421B) (e.g., a +X-direction housing side wall), a second housing side wall (421C) opposite the first housing side wall (421B) (e.g., a -X-direction housing side wall), a third housing side wall (421D) connecting the first housing side wall (421B) and the second housing side wall (421C) and located between the first housing side wall (421B) and the second housing side wall (421C) (e.g., a +Y-direction housing side wall), and a fourth housing side wall connecting the first housing side wall (421B) and the second housing side wall (421C) and located between the first housing side wall (421B) and the second housing side wall (421C) and opposite the third housing side wall (421D). It may include a wall (421E) (e.g., a Y-direction housing side wall).

[0096] The first housing side wall (421B) may include a first hole (421G) and a second hole (421H). The first hole (421G) and the second hole (421H) may be substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A) and spaced apart from each other in a direction along the length of the first housing side wall (421B) (e.g., in the Y-axis direction). The first hole (421G) and the second hole (421H) may be substantially parallel to the optical axis (A) and at least partially open in a direction along the width of the first housing side wall (421B) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction).

[0097] The second housing side wall (421C) may include a third hole (421I). The third hole (421I) may be substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A) and may extend in a direction along the length of the second housing side wall (421C) (e.g., in the Y-axis direction). The third hole (421I) may be substantially parallel to the optical axis (A) and may be at least partially open in a direction along the width of the second housing side wall (421C) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction).

[0098] The third housing side wall (421D) may include a fourth hole (421J). The fourth hole (421J) may be substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A) and may extend in a direction along the length of the third housing side wall (421D) (e.g., in the X-axis direction). The fourth hole (421J) may be substantially parallel to the optical axis (A) and may be at least partially open in a direction along the width of the third housing side wall (421D) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction).

[0099] The fourth housing side wall (421E) may comprise an entirely closed surface.

[0100] The length of the first housing side wall (421B) (e.g., dimension in the Y-axis direction), the length of the second housing side wall (421C) (e.g., dimension in the Y-axis direction), the length of the third housing side wall (421D) (e.g., dimension in the X-axis direction), and the length of the fourth housing side wall (421E) (e.g., dimension in the X-axis direction) may be substantially equal to each other.

[0101] The base frame (421) may include a plurality of housing corner regions (C11, C12, C13, C14). The plurality of housing corner regions (C11, C12, C13, C14) may include a first housing corner region (C11) between a first housing side wall (421B) and a third housing side wall (421D), a second housing corner region (C12) between the first housing side wall (421B) and a fourth housing side wall (421E), a third housing corner region (C13) between the second housing side wall (421C) and the third housing side wall (421D), and a fourth housing corner region (C14) between the second housing side wall (421C) and the fourth housing side wall (421E).

[0102] The camera housing (420) may include a cover frame (422), which may be referred to as a “shield can.” The cover frame (422) may include a top portion (422A), a plurality of cover side walls (422B) connected to the top portion (422A), and a cover hole (422C) disposed in the top portion (422A). The lens housing (412) may at least partially pass through the cover hole (422C).

[0103] Although not shown, the camera module (400) may include an image sensor and a printed circuit board configured to transmit electrical signals converted from the image sensor to other components (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1 and / or the image signal processor (260) of FIG. 2).

[0104] The camera module (400) may include an auto focus (AF) actuator (440) configured to drive at least one lens (411) in a direction along the optical axis (A) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction).

[0105] The AF actuator (440) may include an AF carrier (441) configured to carry a lens housing (412) or an OIS carrier (451). The AF carrier (441) may include an AF carrier base (441A) and a plurality of AF carrier side walls (441B, 441C, 441D, 441E) connected to the AF carrier base (441A). The plurality of AF carrier side walls (441B, 441C, 441D, 441E) may include a first AF carrier side wall (441B) (e.g., a +X-direction AF carrier side wall), a second AF carrier side wall (441C) opposite the first AF carrier side wall (441B) (e.g., a -X-direction AF carrier side wall), a third AF carrier side wall (441D) between the first AF carrier side wall (441B) and the second AF carrier side wall (441C) (e.g., a +Y-direction AF carrier side wall), and a fourth AF carrier side wall (441E) opposite the third AF carrier side wall (441D) and between the first AF carrier side wall (441B) and the second AF carrier side wall (441C) (e.g., a -Y-direction AF carrier side wall). The AF carrier base (441A) may include an AF hole (441F) penetrating through the AF carrier base (441A). The lens housing (412) may at least partially pass through the AF hole (441F).

[0106] The first AF carrier side wall (441B) may include a substantially entirely closed surface. The second AF carrier side wall (441C), the third AF carrier side wall (441D), and the fourth AF carrier side wall (441E) may include at least partially open surfaces.

[0107] The AF carrier (441) may include a plurality of AF carrier corner areas (C21, C22, C23, C24). The plurality of AF carrier corner areas (C21, C22, C23, C24) may include a first AF carrier corner area (C21) between the first AF carrier side wall (441B) and the third AF carrier side wall (441D), a second AF carrier corner area (C22) between the first AF carrier side wall (441B) and the fourth AF carrier side wall (441E), a third AF carrier corner area (C23) between the second AF carrier side wall (441C) and the fourth AF carrier side wall (441E), and a fourth AF carrier corner area (C24) between the second AF carrier side wall (441C) and the fourth AF carrier side wall (441E).

[0108] In an embodiment not shown, the lens housing (412) and the AF carrier (441) may be formed as an integrated component. The integrated component may be referred to as a lens holder, a lens housing, or a carrier.

[0109] The AF actuator (440) may include a first AF magnet (442A). The first AF magnet (442A) may have a plurality (e.g., two) polarizations arranged in a direction along the optical axis (A). The first AF magnet (442A) may be disposed in a first recess (R1) adjacent to the first AF carrier corner area (C21) in the first AF carrier side wall (441B).

[0110] The AF actuator (440) may include a second AF magnet (442B). The second AF magnet (442B) may have a plurality (e.g., two) polarizations arranged in a direction along the optical axis (A). The second AF magnet (442B) may be disposed in a second recess (R2) adjacent to the second AF carrier corner area (C22) in the first AF carrier side wall (441B).

[0111] The first AF magnet (442A) and the second AF magnet (442B) may be separated from each other. The first recess (R1) may not overlap the second recess (R2).

[0112] The AF actuator (440) may include a first AF coil (443A). When current flows through the first AF coil (443A), a driving force may be generated in the first AF magnet (442A) in a direction substantially parallel to the optical axis (A) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction). The first AF coil (443A) may be positioned in the first hole (421G) facing the first AF magnet (442A).

[0113] The AF actuator (440) may include a second AF coil (443B). When current flows through the second AF coil (443B), a driving force may be generated in the second AF magnet (442B) in a direction substantially parallel to the optical axis (A) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction). The second AF coil (443B) may be positioned in the second hole (421H) facing the second AF magnet (442B).

[0114] The vertical width (e.g., Z-axis dimension) of the first AF coil (443A) and the vertical width (e.g., Y-axis dimension) of the second AF coil (443B) may be substantially the same. The horizontal width (e.g., Y-axis dimension) of the first AF coil (443A) may be larger than the horizontal width (e.g., Y-axis dimension) of the second AF coil (443B).

[0115] The actuator (440) may include an AF drive (444). The AF drive (444), which may also be referred to as an "AF sensor," may be configured to detect the magnetic flux density of the first AF magnet (442A). For example, the AF drive (444) may include a Hall sensor or a tunnel magneto-resistance sensor. The AF drive (444) may be disposed inside the first AF coil (443A). The first AF coil (443A) may be electrically connected to the AF drive (444). The AF drive (444) may be configured to control the magnitude and / or direction of a current flowing in the first AF coil (443A).

[0116] In an embodiment not shown, the AF drive (444) may be configured to sense the magnetic flux density of the second AF magnet (442B). The AF drive (444) may be disposed inside the second AF coil (443B). The second AF coil (443B) may be electrically connected to the AF drive (444). The AF drive (444) may be configured to control the magnitude and / or direction of the current flowing in the second AF coil (443B).

[0117] In an embodiment not shown, the AF actuator (440) may include a plurality of AF drives (444). The plurality of AF drives (444) may be configured to sense the magnetic flux density of the first AF magnet (442A) and the magnetic flux density of the second AF magnet (442B), respectively. The plurality of AF drives (444) may be arranged on the inner side of the first AF coil (443A) and the inner side of the second AF coil (443B), respectively. The first AF coil (443A) and the second AF coil (443B) may be connected to each of the plurality of AF drives (444). In an embodiment not shown, one of the plurality of AF drives (444) may be used as a sensor, and at least one other AF drive (444) may be used to control the current of the first AF coil (443A) and / or the second AF coil (443B).

[0118] The AF actuator (440) may include a metal piece (445). The metal piece (445) may be positioned at any suitable location to shift the center of attraction where the resultant attraction between the first AF magnet (442A) and the yoke (446) and the attraction between the second AF magnet (442B) and the yoke (446) act. For example, the metal piece (445) may be positioned inside the first AF coil (443A). The metal piece (445) may include a magnetic material.

[0119] The AF actuator (440) may include a yoke (446) configured to attract the first AF magnet (442A) and the second AF magnet (442B) in a first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A). The yoke (446) may reduce shaking (e.g., tilting) in a direction different from the direction along the optical axis (A) when the AF carrier (441) is driven in the direction along the optical axis (A) (e.g., the Z-axis direction). The yoke (446) may be disposed on the first housing side wall (421B) opposite the first AF magnet (442A) and the second AF magnet (442B) with respect to the first AF coil (443A) and the second AF coil (443B).

[0120] The camera module (400) may include an optical image stabilizing (OIS) actuator (450) configured to drive at least one lens (411) in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A) (e.g., in the XY plane direction).

[0121] The OIS actuator (450) may include an OIS carrier (451) configured to carry a lens housing (412). The OIS carrier (451) may include a first OIS carrier face (451A) (e.g., a +Z direction OIS carrier face), a second OIS carrier face (451B) opposite the first OIS carrier face (451A) (e.g., a -Z direction OIS carrier face), and a plurality of OIS carrier side walls (451C, 451D, 451E, 451F) between the first OIS carrier face (451A) and the second OIS carrier face (451B). The plurality of OIS carrier side walls (451C, 451D, 451E, 451F) may include a first OIS carrier side wall (451C) (e.g., a +X-direction OIS carrier side wall), a second OIS carrier side wall (451D) opposite the first OIS carrier side wall (451C) (e.g., a -X-direction OIS carrier side wall), a third OIS carrier side wall (451E) between the first OIS carrier side wall (451C) and the second OIS carrier side wall (451D) (e.g., a +Y-direction OIS carrier side wall), and a fourth OIS carrier side wall (451F) opposite the third OIS carrier side wall (451E) and between the first OIS carrier side wall (451C) and the second OIS carrier side wall (451D) (e.g., a -Y-direction OIS carrier side wall). The OIS carrier (451) may include an OIS hole (451G) passing through a first OIS carrier face (451A) and a second OIS carrier face (451B). The lens housing (412) may at least partially pass through the OIS hole (451G).

[0122] The OIS carrier (451) may be arranged inside the AF carrier (441). The first OIS carrier side wall (451C) may face the first AF carrier side wall (441B), the second OIS carrier side wall (451D) may face the second AF carrier side wall (441C), the third OIS carrier side wall (451E) may face the third AF carrier side wall (441D), and the fourth OIS carrier side wall (451F) may face the fourth AF carrier side wall (441E).

[0123] The OIS actuator (450) may include a first OIS magnet (452A). The first OIS magnet (452A) may have a plurality (e.g., three) polarizations arranged in a first direction (e.g., X-axis direction) substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A). The first OIS magnet (452A) may be disposed in a third recess (R3) of a third OIS carrier side wall (451E).

[0124] The OIS actuator (450) may include a second OIS magnet (452B). The second OIS magnet (452B) may have a plurality (e.g., two) of polarizations arranged in a second direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A). The second OIS magnet (452B) may be disposed in a fourth recess (R4) of the second OIS carrier side wall (451D).

[0125] The OIS actuator (450) may include a plurality of first OIS coils (453A). When current flows through the plurality of first OIS coils (453A), a driving force in a second direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A) may be generated in the first OIS magnet (452A). The plurality of first OIS coils (453A) may be arranged in the fourth hole (421J) so as to face the corresponding polarization of the first OIS magnet (452A), respectively. The horizontal width (e.g., X-axis direction dimension) of each of the plurality of first OIS coils (453A) may correspond to the length (e.g., X-axis direction dimension) of the polarization of the corresponding first OIS magnet (452A).

[0126] The OIS actuator (450) may include a plurality of second OIS coils (453B). When current flows through the plurality of second OIS coils (453B), a driving force in a first direction (e.g., X-axis direction) substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A) may be generated in the second OIS magnet (452B). The plurality of second OIS coils (453B) may be arranged in the third hole (421I) so as to face the corresponding polarization of the second OIS magnet (452B), respectively. The horizontal width (e.g., Y-axis dimension) of each of the plurality of second OIS coils (453B) may correspond to the length (e.g., Y-axis dimension) of the polarization of the corresponding second OIS magnet (452B).

[0127] The OIS actuator (450) may include a first OIS drive (454A). The first OIS drive (454A), which may also be referred to as a “first OIS sensor,” may be configured to sense the magnetic flux density of the first OIS magnet (452A). For example, the first OIS drive (454A) may include a Hall sensor or a tunnel magneto-resistance sensor. The first OIS drive (454A) may be disposed inside a first OIS coil (453A) corresponding to a largest polarization (e.g., a center polarization) among the polarizations of the first OIS magnet (452A). At least one first OIS coil (453A) among the plurality of first OIS coils (453A) may be electrically connected to the first OIS drive (454A). The first OIS drive (454A) may be configured to control the magnitude and / or direction of current flowing in at least one first OIS coil (453A).

[0128] In an embodiment not shown, the OIS actuator (450) may include a plurality of first OIS drives (454A). One of the plurality of first OIS drives (454A) may be used as a sensor, and at least one other first OIS drive (454A) may be used to control the current of at least one first OIS coil (453A).

[0129] The OIS actuator (450) may include a plurality of second OIS drives (454B). The plurality of second OIS drives (454B), which may each be referred to as a “second OIS sensor,” may be configured to detect the magnetic flux density of the second OIS magnet (452B). For example, the plurality of second OIS drives (454B) may each include a Hall sensor or a tunnel magneto-resistance sensor. The plurality of second OIS drives (454B) may each be disposed inside a corresponding second OIS coil (453B). At least one second OIS coil (453B) among the plurality of second OIS coils (453B) may be electrically connected to at least one second OIS drive (454B). The second OIS drive (454B) may be configured to control the magnitude and / or direction of the current flowing in at least one second OIS coil (453B). In one embodiment, one of the plurality of second OIS drives (454B) may be used as a sensor, and at least one other second OIS drive (454B) may be used to control the current of at least one second OIS coil (453B).

[0130] The camera module (400) may include a first guide (G1), which may be referred to as a “main guide.” The first guide (G1) may be configured to guide the AF carrier (441) relative to the base frame (421) in a direction along the optical axis (A) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction).

[0131] The first guide (G1) may include a first groove (G11). The first groove (G11) may be disposed on the first AF carrier side wall (441B) between the first AF carrier corner area (C21) and the second AF carrier corner area (C22). The first groove (G11) may be disposed between the first recess (R1) and the second recess (R2). The first groove (G11) may extend along the first AF carrier side wall (441B) in the height direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) of the first AF carrier side wall (441B).

[0132] The first guide (G1) may include a second groove (G12). The second groove (G12) may be disposed in the first housing side wall (421B) between the first housing corner region (C11) and the second housing corner region (C12). The second groove (G12) may be disposed between the first hole (421G) and the second hole (421H). The second groove (G12) may extend along the height (e.g., the Z-axis dimension) of the first housing side wall (421B) from the bottom portion (421A). The second groove (G12) may face the first groove (G11).

[0133] The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may each generally include a V-shaped groove. The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may ensure linear movement of the AF carrier (441) in a direction along the optical axis (A) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) and may reduce or prevent shaking (e.g., tilt) of the AF carrier (441).

[0134] The first guide (G1) may include a plurality of first balls (B11, B12, B13). The plurality of first balls (B11, B12, B13) may include a plurality of first main balls (B11, B12) and a first sub ball (B13) disposed between the plurality of first main balls (B11, B12). The plurality of first main balls (B11, B12) and the first sub ball (B13) may be in rolling contact with the first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12). The size (e.g., diameter) of each of the first main balls (B11, B12) may be larger than the size (e.g., diameter) of the first sub ball (B13). From the bottom portion (421A), one first main ball (B11), one first sub ball (B13) and one other first main ball (B12) may be arranged in a direction along the optical axis (A) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction). In an embodiment not shown, the first guide (G1) may not include the first sub ball (B13).

[0135] The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may be positioned within a length range of L / 4 on a first side (e.g., +Y-direction side) and a length range of L / 4 on a second side (e.g., -Y-direction side) based on a center area of ​​the width of the camera module (400). The width of the camera module (400) may be defined by the length between the first housing corner area (C11) and the second housing corner area (C12). In one embodiment, the first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may be offset to one side (e.g., -Y-direction side) from a center area of ​​the width of the camera module (400) that does not interfere with the lens housing (412).

[0136] The cover frame (422) may include a first protrusion (422D) that protrudes toward the ball receiving space defined by the first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12). The first protrusion (422D) may be formed by pressing at least a portion of the top portion (422A) in a direction (e.g., -Z direction) from the top portion (422A) toward the bottom portion (421A). The protrusion length of the first protrusion (422D) may define a rolling distance of the plurality of first balls (B11, B12, B13).

[0137] The camera module (400) may include a second guide (G2), which may be referred to as a “sub-guide.” The second guide (G2) may be configured to guide the AF carrier (441) relative to the base frame (421) in a direction along the optical axis (A) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction).

[0138] The second guide (G2) may include a third groove (G21). The third groove (G21) may be disposed in the first AF carrier corner region (C21). The third groove (G21) may extend in the height direction (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) of the first AF carrier side wall (441B) along the first AF carrier side wall (441B). The third groove (G21) may extend from a step (ST) that is located in the first AF carrier corner region (C21) of the AF carrier (441) and extends from the AF carrier base (441A) in the height direction (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) of the first AF carrier side wall (441B).

[0139] The second guide (G2) may include a fourth groove (G22). The fourth groove (G22) may be arranged in the first housing corner region (C11). The fourth groove (G22) may extend from the bottom portion (421A) along the height (e.g., the Z-axis dimension) of the first housing side wall (421B). At least a portion of the fourth groove (G22) may face the third groove (G21). At least a portion of the fourth groove (G22) may face the step (ST).

[0140] One of the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22) may comprise a generally U-shaped groove, and the other of the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22) may comprise a generally V-shaped groove. The third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22) may reduce or prevent rotational movement of the AF carrier (441) with respect to the optical axis (A).

[0141] The second guide (G2) may include at least one second ball (B21, B22). For example, the second guide (G2) may include at least one second main ball (B21) and a second sub-ball (B22) disposed on at least one second main ball (B21). At least one of the second main ball (B21) and the second sub-ball (B22) may be in rolling contact with the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22). The size (e.g., diameter) of the second main ball (B21) may be larger than the size (e.g., diameter) of the second sub-ball (B22). In an embodiment not shown, the second guide (G2) may not include the second sub-ball (B22).

[0142] The third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22) may be positioned outside the ±L / 4 length range based on the center area of ​​the width of the camera module (400).

[0143] The cover frame (422) may include a second protrusion (422E) that protrudes toward the ball receiving space defined by the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22). The second protrusion (422E) may be formed by pressing at least a portion of the top portion (422A) in a direction (e.g., -Z direction) from the top portion (422A) toward the bottom portion (421A). The protrusion length of the second protrusion (422E) may define a rolling distance of at least one second ball (B21, B22).

[0144] The center of attraction (SC) on which the resultant force of the attraction between the first AF magnet (442A) and the yoke (446) and the attraction between the second AF magnet (442B) and the yoke (446) acts may be located within a virtual support surface (P) connecting a plurality of first main balls (B11, B12) and at least one second main ball (B21). The center of attraction (SC) may overlap the first AF magnet (442A) when viewed in the direction between the first AF magnet (442A) and the yoke (446) (e.g., in the X-axis direction).

[0145] The attraction force between the first AF magnet (442A) and the yoke (446) may be greater than the attraction force between the second AF magnet (442B) and the yoke (446). This may reduce or prevent rotational movement of the AF carrier (441) relative to the first guide (G1) and reduce or prevent detachment of at least one first main ball (B11, B12) from the second guide (G2). The above condition can be satisfied, for example, by the case where the height (e.g., dimension in the Z-axis direction) of the first AF magnet (442A) and the height (e.g., dimension in the Z-axis direction) of the second AF magnet (442B) are substantially the same, the thickness (e.g., dimension in the X-axis direction) of the first AF magnet (442A) and the thickness (e.g., dimension in the X-axis direction) of the second AF magnet (442B) are substantially the same, the first AF magnet (442A) and the second AF magnet (442B) include magnetic materials of the same grade, and the length (e.g., dimension in the Y-axis direction) of the first AF magnet (442A) is greater than the length (e.g., dimension in the Y-axis direction) of the second AF magnet (442B).

[0146] The structure of arranging the first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) within a length range of ±L / 4 based on the center area of ​​the width of the camera module (400) can increase the tilt safety factor of the camera module (400) by reducing the length of one edge connecting the first main ball (B11) and the second main ball (B21) among the edges constituting the virtual support surface (P) and the length of the edge connecting the other first main ball (B12) and the second main ball (B21), and reducing the shortest distance between the edges constituting the virtual support surface (P) and the center of attraction (SC). The increased tilt safety factor can reduce the distance between the first main balls (B11, B12), and reduce the size of the camera module (400).

[0147] The camera module (400) may include an OIS guide (G4) configured to guide the OIS carrier (451) relative to the AF carrier (441) in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A) (e.g., in the XY plane direction). The OIS guide (G4) may include a plurality of first curved grooves (G41) arranged on a surface (e.g., in the +Z direction) of the AF carrier base (441A), a plurality of second curved grooves (G42) (not shown in the drawing) arranged on a surface (e.g., in the -Z direction) of the OIS carrier base and facing the plurality of first curved grooves (G41), and a plurality of OIS balls (B4) that contact the plurality of first curved grooves (G41) and the plurality of second curved grooves (G42), respectively. The plurality of first curved grooves (G41) and the plurality of second curved grooves (G42) may generally comprise a hemispherical shape.

[0148] The camera module (400) may include a stopper (460), which may be referred to as a “Z-stopper.” The stopper (460) may be configured to reduce or prevent the OIS carrier (451) from being dislodged from the AF carrier (441). When the OIS carrier (451) is dislodged a certain distance along the optical axis (A), the stopper (460) may reduce or prevent the plurality of first balls (B11, B12, B13) and at least one second ball (B21, B22) from being dislodged from their positions. The stopper (460) may be disposed between the OIS carrier (451) and the cover frame (422). The stopper (460) may be coupled to the AF carrier (441).

[0149] The camera module (400) may include a flexible printed circuit board (480). The flexible printed circuit board (480) may include a first substrate area (480A) (e.g., a +X-direction substrate area) disposed on a first housing side wall (421B), a second substrate area (480B) (e.g., a +Y-direction substrate area) connected to the first substrate area (480A) and disposed on a third housing side wall (421D), and a third substrate area (480C) (e.g., a -X-direction substrate area) connected to the second substrate area (480B) and opposite the first substrate area (480A) and disposed on a second housing side wall (421C). The first AF coil (443A), the second AF coil (443B), the AF drive (444), and the metal piece (445) may be disposed on an inner surface (e.g., a -X direction surface) of the first substrate area (480A) and may be electrically connected to the first substrate area (480A). The metal piece (445) may be fixed to the first substrate area (480A). The yoke (446) may be disposed on an outer surface (e.g., a +X direction surface) of the first substrate area (480A). A plurality of first OIS coils (453A) and the first OIS drive (454A) may be disposed on an inner surface (e.g., a -Y direction surface) of the second substrate area (480B) and may be electrically connected to the second substrate area (480B). A plurality of second OIS coils (453B) and a plurality of second OIS drives (454B) may be arranged on an inner surface (e.g., a +X direction surface) of the third substrate area (480C) and electrically connected to the third substrate area (480C).

[0150] Fig. 14 is a plan view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment. Fig. 15 is a side view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment. Fig. 16 is an enlarged view of a portion E1 of the camera module of Fig. 14 according to one embodiment. Fig. 17 is an enlarged view of a portion E2 of the camera module of Fig. 14 according to one embodiment. Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the camera module of Fig. 14 taken along line 18-18 according to one embodiment.

[0151] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 18, a camera module (400-1) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1, the camera module (180) of FIG. 2, the second camera module (380B) of FIGS. 3 and 4, and / or the camera module (400) of FIGS. 5 to 13) may include a lens assembly (410), a camera housing (420), an AF actuator (440-1) (e.g., the AF actuator (440) of FIGS. 5 to 13), an OIS actuator (450), a stopper (460), and a flexible printed circuit board (480).

[0152] The camera housing (420) may include a base frame (421). The base frame (421) may include a first housing corner region (C11), a second housing corner region (C12), a third housing corner region (C13), and a fourth housing corner region (C14).

[0153] The AF actuator (440-1) may include an AF carrier (441-1) (e.g., the AF carrier (441) of FIGS. 5 to 13). The AF carrier (441-1) may include a first AF carrier corner area (C21), a second AF carrier corner area (C22), a third AF carrier corner area (C23), and a fourth AF carrier corner area (C24).

[0154] The AF actuator (440-1) may include a first AF magnet (442A), a second AF magnet (442B), a first AF coil (443A), a second AF coil (443B), an AF drive (444), a metal piece (445), and a yoke (446).

[0155] The first AF magnet (442A) and the second AF magnet (442B) may be physically connected to each other. For example, among the plurality of polarizations arranged in a direction along the optical axis (A) of the first AF magnet (442A) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction), the polarization portion furthest from the bottom portion (421A) and among the plurality of polarizations arranged in a direction along the optical axis (A) of the second AF magnet (442B), the polarization portion furthest from the bottom portion (421A) may be physically connected to each other via a connecting portion (442AB). The connecting portion (442AB) may be spaced apart from the bottom portion (421A) by a gap. The above polarized portions and connecting portions (442AB) may have the same polarity when the first AF magnet (442A) and the second AF magnet (442B) are viewed in the same specific direction (e.g., -X direction). The first AF magnet (442A) and the second AF magnet (442B) may be integral magnets.

[0156] The metal piece (445) may at least partially overlap with the connecting portion (442AB) when viewed in the direction between the first AF magnet (442A) and the yoke (446) (e.g., in the X-axis direction) or when viewed in the direction between the second AF magnet (442B) and the yoke (446) (e.g., in the X-axis direction).

[0157] The OIS actuator (450) may include an OIS carrier (451), a first OIS magnet (452A), a second OIS magnet (452B), a plurality of first OIS coils (453A), a plurality of second OIS coils (453B), a first OIS drive (454A), and a plurality of second OIS drives (454B).

[0158] The camera module (400-1) may include a first guide (G1), a second guide (G2), and a third guide (G3). The first guide (G1) may be referred to as a “main guide,” the second guide (G2) may be referred to as a “first sub-guide,” and the third guide (G3) may be referred to as a “second sub-guide.” The third guide (G3) may be configured to guide the AF carrier (441) relative to the base frame (421) in a direction along the optical axis (A) (e.g., in the Z-axis direction).

[0159] The first guide (G1) may include a first groove (G11), a second groove (G12), and at least one first ball (B1). The at least one first ball (B1) may include at least one first main ball (B11, B12). The at least one first ball (B1) may not include a sub-ball (e.g., the first sub-ball (B13) of FIGS. 5 to 13).

[0160] The second guide (G2) may include a third groove (G21), a fourth groove (G22), and at least one second ball (B2). At least one second ball (B2) may include at least one second main ball (B21). At least one second ball (B2) may not include a sub-ball (e.g., the second sub-ball (B22) of FIGS. 5 to 13).

[0161] The third guide (G3) may include a fifth groove (G31). The fifth groove (G31) may be arranged in the second AF carrier corner area (C22). The fifth groove (G31) may be positioned in the second AF carrier corner area (C22) of the AF carrier (441) and may extend from the second step (ST2) on the AF carrier base (441A) in the height direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) of the first AF carrier side wall (441B).

[0162] The third guide (G3) may include a sixth groove (G32). The sixth groove (G32) may be disposed in the second housing corner region (C12). The sixth groove (G32) may extend from the bottom portion (421A) along the height (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) of the first housing side wall (421B). At least a portion of the sixth groove (G32) may face the fifth groove (G31). At least a portion of the sixth groove (G32) may face the second step (ST2).

[0163] The third guide (G3) may include at least one third ball (B3). For example, at least one third ball (B3) may include at least one third main ball (B31). At least one third ball (B3) may not include a sub ball.

[0164] The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may be positioned within a length range of L / 4 based on a central area of ​​the width of the camera module (400-1). The first groove (G11) may be positioned between the first carrier corner area (C21) and the second AF carrier corner area (C22). The third groove (G21), the fourth groove (G22), the fifth groove (G31), and the sixth groove (G32) may be positioned outside a length range of L / 4 based on a central area of ​​the width of the camera module (400-1). For example, the second guide (G2) may be positioned in the first housing corner area (C11), and the third guide (G3) may be positioned in the second housing corner area (C12). The structure of arranging the second guide (G2) and the third guide (G3) outside the above range can secure a desired driving force by configuring the first AF magnet (442A), the second AF magnet (442B), the first AF coil (443A), and the second AF coil (443B) to a desired size.

[0165] The first AF magnet (442A) and the first AF coil (443A) may be positioned between the first guide (G1) and the second guide (G2). The second AF magnet (442B) and the second AF coil (443B) may be positioned between the first guide (G1) and the third guide (G3).

[0166] The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may be positioned adjacent to the bottom portion (421A). For example, the first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may not extend from the bottom portion (421A) beyond the connecting portion (442AB).

[0167] The distance between the first ball (B1) and the bottom portion (421A) may be smaller than the distance between the second ball (B2) and the bottom portion (421A) or the distance between the third ball (B3) and the bottom portion (421A). The distance between the second ball (B2) and the bottom portion (421A) may be substantially equal to the distance between the third ball (B3) and the bottom portion (421A).

[0168] The center of attraction (SC) on which the attraction force between the first AF magnet (442A), the second AF magnet (442B), and the connecting portion (442AB) and the yoke (446) acts may be located within a virtual support surface (P) connecting the first ball (B1), the second ball (B2), and the third ball (B3). The center of attraction (SC) may be located at a point within the virtual support surface (P) where the distance between each edge constituting the virtual support surface (P) is minimized.

[0169] The second guide (G2) and the third guide (G3) may have shapes that are substantially symmetrical with respect to a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the first AF carrier side wall (441B) on which the first AF magnet (442A) and the second AF magnet (442B) are arranged, and which include the optical axis (A). For example, the contact angle of the second ball (B2) with respect to the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22) and the contact angle of the third ball (B3) with respect to the fifth groove (G31) and the sixth groove (G32) may be substantially symmetrical with respect to each other. When the second ball (B2) comes into contact with the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22), the second ball (B2) can be supported by at least one support surface of the third groove (G21) and at least two support surfaces of the fourth groove (G22). When the third ball (B3) comes into contact with the fifth groove (G31) and the sixth groove (G32), the third ball (B3) can be supported by at least one support surface of the fifth groove (G31) and at least two support surfaces of the sixth groove (G32).

[0170] When an attractive force is applied between the first AF magnet (442A), the second AF magnet (442B), and the connecting portion (442AB) and the yoke (446), the support surface of the third groove (G21) supporting the second ball (B2) and the support surface of the fourth groove (G22) may be substantially parallel to each other, and the support surface of the fifth groove (G31) supporting the third ball (B3) and the support surface of the sixth groove (G32) may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0171] The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may each include a generally V-shaped groove. One of the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22) may include a generally V-shaped groove, and the other of the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22) may include a generally U-shaped groove. One of the fifth groove (G31) and the sixth groove (G32) may include a generally V-shaped groove, and the other of the fifth groove (G31) and the sixth groove (G32) may include a generally U-shaped groove.

[0172] FIG. 19 is a side view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 20-20 of the camera module of FIG. 19 according to one embodiment.

[0173] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, a camera module (400-2) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1, the camera module (180) of FIG. 2, the second camera module (380B) of FIGS. 3 and 4, the camera module (400) of FIGS. 5 to 13, and / or the camera module (400-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18) may include a lens assembly (410), a camera housing (420), an AF actuator (440-2) (e.g., the AF actuator (440) of FIGS. 5 to 13 and / or the AF actuator (440-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18), a stopper (460), and a flexible printed circuit board (480).

[0174] The camera housing (420) may include a base frame (421). The base frame (421) may include a bottom portion (421A).

[0175] The AF actuator (440-2) may include an AF carrier (441-2) (e.g., the AF carrier (441) of FIGS. 5 to 13 and / or the AF carrier (441-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18), a first AF magnet (442A), a second AF magnet (442B), a first AF coil (443A), and a second AF coil (443B).

[0176] The AF carrier (441-2) may include a first step (ST1), a second step (ST2), and a third step (ST3). The third step (ST3) may extend from the AF carrier base (441A) in the height direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) of the first AF carrier side wall (441B). The third step (ST3) may be disposed in an area between a portion of the first AF carrier side wall (441B) where the first AF magnet (442A) is disposed (e.g., the first recess (R1) of FIGS. 5 to 13) and a portion where the second AF magnet (442B) is disposed (e.g., the second recess (R2) of FIGS. 5 to 13).

[0177] The AF actuator (440-2) may include a plurality of AF drives (444) each disposed on the inner side of the first AF coil (443A) and the inner side of the second AF coil (443B). The amount and / or direction of the current flowing in the first AF coil (443A) and the second AF coil (443B) may be controlled based on the values ​​measured by the plurality of AF drives (444). This reduces the size of the camera module (400-2) by reducing the sizes of the first AF magnet (442A), the second AF magnet (442B), the first AF coil (443A), and the second AF coil (443B), while controlling the amount of current flowing in each of the first AF coil (443A) and the second AF coil (443B) to secure a desired driving force of the AF actuator (440-2).

[0178] The camera module (400-2) may include a first guide (G1), a second guide (G2), and a third guide (G3). The first guide (G1) may include a first groove (G11), a second groove (G12), and a first ball (B1). The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may extend from the bottom portion (421A) to a third step (ST3). The second guide (G2) may include a third groove (G21), a fourth groove (G22), and a second ball (B2). The third guide (G3) may include a fifth groove (G31), a sixth groove (G32), and a third ball (B3).

[0179] FIG. 21 is a plan view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0180] Referring to FIG. 21, a camera module (400-3) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1, the camera module (180) of FIG. 2, the second camera module (380B) of FIGS. 3 and 4, the camera module (400) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the camera module (400-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, and / or the camera module (400-2) of FIGS. 19 and 20) includes a lens assembly (410), a camera housing (420), an AF actuator (440-3) (e.g., the AF actuator (440) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the AF actuator (440-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, and / or the AF actuator (440-2) of FIGS. 19 and 20), an OIS actuator (450), a stopper (460), a first It may include a guide (G1), a second guide (G2) and a third guide (G3).

[0181] The AF actuator (440-3) may include an AF carrier (441-3) (e.g., the AF carrier (441) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the AF carrier (441-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, and / or the AF carrier (441-2) of FIGS. 19 and 20), a first AF magnet (442A), a second AF magnet (442B), a first AF coil (443A), a second AF coil (443B), and a plurality of AF drives (444).

[0182] The first guide (G1) may include a first groove (G11), a second groove (G12), and a first ball (B1). The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may each include a generally V-shaped groove. The second guide (G2) may include a third groove (G21), a fourth groove (G22), and a second ball (B2). One of the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22) may include a generally V-shaped groove, and the other of the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22) may include a generally U-shaped groove. The third guide (G3) may include a fifth groove (G31), a sixth groove (G32), and a third ball (B3). One of the fifth groove (G31) and the sixth groove (G32) may include a generally V-shaped groove, and the other of the fifth groove (G31) and the sixth groove (G32) may include a generally U-shaped groove. This means that when the current flowing in the first AF coil (443A) and the second AF coil (443B) is controlled, linear movement in the direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) along the optical axis (A) of the AF carrier (441-3) is ensured by the first guide (G1), and rotational movement of the AF carrier (441-3) with respect to the optical axis (A) can be reduced or prevented by the second guide (G2) and the third guide (G3).

[0183] FIG. 22 is a side view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0184] Referring to FIG. 22, a camera module (400-4) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1, the camera module (180) of FIG. 2, the second camera module (380B) of FIGS. 3 and 4, the camera module (400) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the camera module (400-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, the camera module (400-2) of FIGS. 19 and 20, and / or the camera module (400-3) of FIG. 21) comprises a lens assembly (410), a camera housing (420), an AF actuator (440-4) (e.g., the AF actuator (440) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the AF actuator (440-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, the AF actuator (440-2) of FIGS. 19 and 20, and / or the AF actuator (440-3) of FIG. 21) The actuator (440-3) may include a first guide (G1), a second guide (G2), and a third guide (G3). The AF actuator (440-4) may include a first AF magnet (442A), a second AF magnet (442B), a first AF coil (443A), a second AF coil (443B), and a plurality of AF drives (444).

[0185] The first guide (G1) may include a first groove (G11), a second groove (G12), and a plurality of first balls (B1). The plurality of first balls (B1) may include a first main ball (B11) disposed on a bottom portion (421A), and a first sub-ball (B13) disposed on the first main ball (B11). The size (e.g., diameter) of the first sub-ball (B13) may be smaller than the size (e.g., diameter) of the first main ball (B11).

[0186] The second guide (G2) may include a third groove (G21), a fourth groove (G22), and a plurality of second balls (B2). The plurality of second balls (B2) may include a second sub-ball (B22) disposed on a first step (ST1) spaced apart from the bottom portion (421A), and a second main ball (B21) disposed on the second sub-ball (B22). The size (e.g., diameter) of the second sub-ball (B22) may be smaller than the size (e.g., diameter) of the second main ball (B21).

[0187] The third guide (G3) may include a fifth groove (G31), a sixth groove (G32), and a plurality of third balls (B3). The plurality of third balls (B3) may include a third sub-ball (B32) disposed on a second step (ST2) spaced apart from the bottom portion (421A), and a third main ball (B31) disposed on the third sub-ball (B32). The size (e.g., diameter) of the third sub-ball (B32) may be smaller than the size (e.g., diameter) of the third main ball (B31).

[0188] The structure in which the first sub-ball (B13) is placed on the first main ball (B11) is configured by configuring a protrusion (e.g., the first protrusion (422D)) of the cover frame (e.g., the cover frame (422) of FIGS. 5 to 13) to have any suitable protrusion length without introducing an additional first sub-ball (B13) into the first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12), and the gap between the protrusion and the first sub-ball (B13) and the position of the first main ball (B11) within the first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) can be determined with one first sub-ball (B13).

[0189] FIG. 23 is a side view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0190] Referring to FIG. 23, a camera module (400-5) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1, the camera module (180) of FIG. 2, the second camera module (380B) of FIGS. 3 and 4, the camera module (400) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the camera module (400-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, the camera module (400-2) of FIGS. 19 and 20, and / or the camera module (400-3) of FIG. 21) comprises a lens assembly (410), a camera housing (420), an AF actuator (440-5) (e.g., the AF actuator (440) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the AF actuator (440-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, the AF actuator (440-2) of FIGS. 19 and 20, and / or the AF actuator (440-3) of FIG. 21) The actuator (440-3) may include a first guide (G1), a second guide (G2), and a third guide (G3). The AF actuator (440-5) may include a first AF magnet (442A), a second AF magnet (442B), a first AF coil (443A), a second AF coil (443B), and a plurality of AF drives (444).

[0191] The first guide (G1) may include a first groove (G11), a second groove (G12), and a plurality of first balls (B1). The plurality of first balls (B1) may include a first sub-ball (B13) disposed on the bottom portion (421A), and a first main ball (B11) disposed on the first sub-ball (B13). The size (e.g., diameter) of the first sub-ball (B13) may be smaller than the size (e.g., diameter) of the first main ball (B11).

[0192] The second guide (G2) may include a third groove (G21), a fourth groove (G22), and a plurality of second balls (B2). The plurality of second balls (B2) may include a second main ball (B21) disposed on the bottom portion (421A), and a second sub ball (B22) disposed on the second main ball (B21). The size (e.g., diameter) of the second sub ball (B22) may be smaller than the size (e.g., diameter) of the second main ball (B21).

[0193] The third guide (G3) may include a fifth groove (G31), a sixth groove (G32), and a plurality of third balls (B3). The plurality of third balls (B3) may include a third main ball (B31) disposed on the bottom portion (421A), and a third sub ball (B32) disposed on the third main ball (B31). The size (e.g., diameter) of the third sub ball (B32) may be smaller than the size (e.g., diameter) of the third main ball (B31).

[0194] Fig. 24 is a plan view of a camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment. Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 25-25 of the camera module of Fig. 24 according to one embodiment.

[0195] Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, a camera module (400-6) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1, the camera module (180) of FIG. 2, the second camera module (380B) of FIGS. 3 and 4, the camera module (400) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the camera module (400-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, the camera module (400-2) of FIGS. 19 and 20, the camera module (400-3) of FIG. 21, the camera module (400-4) of FIG. 22, and / or the camera module (400-5) of FIG. 23) comprises a lens assembly (410), a camera housing (420), an AF actuator (440-6) (e.g., the AF actuator (440) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the AF actuator (440-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, 19 and 20, the AF actuator (440-2) of FIG. 21, the AF actuator (440-4) of FIG. 22 and / or the AF actuator (440-5) of FIG. 23), may include a first guide (G1) and a second guide (G2).

[0196] The first guide (G1) may include a first groove (G11), a second groove (G12), and a shaft (GS) in contact with the second groove (G12). The shaft (GS) may extend from the bottom portion (421A) of the base frame (421) along the height (e.g., the Z-axis dimension) of the first housing side wall (421B). The shaft (GS) may ensure linear movement of the AF carrier (441) relative to the base frame (421).

[0197] The shaft (GS) may be joined to the first groove (G11). However, without limitation, the shaft (GS) may be bonded to the first groove (G11) or formed integrally with the first groove (G11) as a single component (e.g., insert molding).

[0198] Fig. 26 is a plan view of a camera module according to one embodiment. Fig. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the camera module of Fig. 26 taken along line 27-27 according to one embodiment. Fig. 28 is an exploded perspective view of the camera module according to one embodiment. Fig. 29 is a perspective view of the camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment. Fig. 30 is a side view of the camera module with the camera cover omitted according to one embodiment.

[0199] Referring to FIGS. 26 to 30, a camera module (500) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1, the camera module (180) of FIG. 2, the second camera module (380B) and / or the third camera module (380D) of FIGS. 3 and 4, the camera module (400) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the camera module (400-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, the camera module (400-2) of FIGS. 19 and 20, the camera module (400-3) of FIG. 21, the camera module (400-4) of FIG. 22, the camera module (400-5) of FIG. 23, and / or the camera module (400-6) of FIGS. 24 and 25) is connected to a lens assembly (510) (e.g., the lens assembly (210) of FIG. 2, the lens assembly (410) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the second camera module (380B) and / or the third camera module (380D) of FIGS. 14 to 13). The lens assembly (410) of FIG. 18, the lens assembly (410) of FIG. 19 and FIG. 20, the lens assembly (410) of FIG. 21, the lens assembly (410) of FIG. 22, the lens assembly (410) of FIG. 23, and / or the lens assembly (410) of FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 may be included.

[0200] A lens assembly (510) may include a plurality of lenses (511) (e.g., lenses (411) of FIGS. 5 to 13) having defined optical axes (A). A portion of the optical axis (A) may be defined by a line connecting the center of curvature of the first surface and the center of curvature of the Nth surface (N is a natural number) of each of the plurality of lenses (511).

[0201] The lens assembly (510) may include a lens housing (512) configured to accommodate a plurality of lenses (511) (e.g., lens housing 412 of FIGS. 5 to 13). The lens assembly (510) may include a lens holder (513) configured to couple the lens housing (512) to a cover frame (522) (e.g., cover frame 422 of FIGS. 5 to 13). In an embodiment not shown, the lens housing (512) and the lens holder (513) may be integrally formed as one component. The integral component may be referred to as a “lens housing” or a “lens holder.”

[0202] The camera module (500) may include a camera housing (520) (e.g., the camera housing (420) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the camera housing (420) of FIGS. 14 to 18, the camera housing (420) of FIGS. 19 and 20, the camera housing (420) of FIG. 21, the camera housing (420) of FIG. 22, the camera housing (420) of FIG. 23, and / or the camera housing (420) of FIGS. 24 and 25).

[0203] The camera housing (520) may include a base frame (521) (e.g., the base frame (421) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the base frame (421) of FIGS. 14 to 18, the base frame (421) of FIGS. 19 and 20, the base frame (421) of FIG. 21, the base frame (421) of FIG. 22, the base frame (421) of FIG. 23, and / or the base frame (421) of FIGS. 24 and 25). The base frame (521) may include a first housing side wall (521B) (e.g., the first housing side wall (421B) of FIGS. 5 to 13), a second housing side wall (521C) (e.g., the second housing side wall (421C) of FIGS. 5 to 13), a third housing side wall (521D) (e.g., the third housing side wall (421D) of FIGS. 5 to 13), and a fourth housing side wall (521E) (e.g., the fourth housing side wall (421E) of FIGS. 5 to 13).

[0204] The first housing side wall (521B) may include a first hole (521G) (e.g., the first hole (421G) of FIGS. 5 to 13) and a second hole (521H) (e.g., the second hole (421H) of FIGS. 5 to 13). The first hole (521G) and the second hole (521H) may be defined within the first housing side wall (521B).

[0205] The second housing side wall (521C) may include a third hole (521I) (e.g., the third hole (421I) of FIGS. 5 to 13). The third hole (521I) may be defined within the second housing side wall (521C).

[0206] The third housing side wall (521D) may include a fourth hole (521J) (e.g., the fourth hole (521J) of FIGS. 5 to 13). The fourth hole (521J) may be defined within the third housing side wall (521D).

[0207] The length of the first housing side wall (521B) (e.g., Y-axis dimension) and the length of the second housing side wall (521C) (e.g., Y-axis dimension) may be greater than the length of the third housing side wall (521D) (e.g., X-axis dimension) and the length of the fourth housing side wall (521E) (e.g., X-axis dimension).

[0208] The base frame (521) may include a first housing corner region (C11), a second housing corner region (C12), a third housing corner region (C13), and a fourth housing corner region (C14).

[0209] The camera housing (520) may include a cover frame (522) (e.g., the cover frame (422) of FIGS. 5 to 13). The cover frame (522) may include a top portion (522A) (e.g., the top portion (422A) of FIGS. 5 to 13), a plurality of cover side walls (522B) (e.g., the cover side walls (422B) of FIGS. 5 to 13), and a cover hole (522C) (e.g., the cover hole (422C) of FIGS. 5 to 13). The lens housing (512) may be directly coupled to the fifth hole (522C) or may be coupled to the fifth hole (522C) via a lens holder (513).

[0210] The camera module (500) may include an image sensor (530) (e.g., the image sensor (230) of FIG. 2).

[0211] The camera module (500) may include a reflector (535) configured to reflect light passing through a plurality of lenses (511) toward an image sensor (530). For example, the reflector (535) may include a prism, a mirror, or any suitable optical system. The reflector (535) may include an incident surface (535A) onto which light passing through a plurality of lenses (511) is incident, an exit surface (535B) onto which light incident into the interior of the reflector (535) through the incident surface (535A) is incident, a first reflective surface (535C) configured to reflect light incident through the incident surface (535A) toward the incident surface (535A), the exit surface (535B), or the second reflective surface (535D), and a second reflective surface (535D) configured to reflect light from the incident surface (535A), the exit surface (535B), or the first reflective surface (535C) toward the exit surface (535B). Light passing through the exit surface (535B) may travel toward the image sensor (530). The incident surface (535A) and the exit surface (535B) may be substantially parallel to each other, and the first reflective surface (535C) and the second reflective surface (535D) may be substantially parallel to each other. At least a portion of the incident surface (535A) and the second reflective surface (535D) may be covered by the lens holder (513).

[0212] In an embodiment not shown, the camera module (500) may include an additional lens assembly positioned between the reflector (535) and the image sensor (530).

[0213] The camera module (500) may include an AF actuator (540) (e.g., the AF actuator (440) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the AF actuator (440-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, the AF actuator (440-2) of FIGS. 19 and 20, the AF actuator (440-3) of FIG. 21, the AF actuator (440-4) of FIG. 22, the AF actuator (440-5) of FIG. 23, and / or the AF actuator (440-6) of FIGS. 24 and 25). The AF actuator (540) may be configured to drive the image sensor (530) in a direction along the optical axis (A) (e.g., the Z-axis direction).

[0214] The AF actuator (540) may include an AF carrier (541) (e.g., the AF carrier (441) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the AF carrier (441-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, the AF carrier (441-2) of FIGS. 19 and 20, the AF carrier (441-3) of FIG. 21, and / or the AF carrier (441) of FIGS. 24 and 25). The AF carrier (541) may include an AF carrier base (541A) (e.g., the AF carrier base (441A) of FIGS. 5 to 13) and an AF carrier side wall (541B) (e.g., the first AF carrier side wall (441B) of FIGS. 5 to 13).

[0215] The AF carrier (541) may include a first AF carrier corner area (C21), a second AF carrier corner area (C22), a third AF carrier corner area (C23), and a fourth AF carrier corner area (C24).

[0216] The AF actuator (540) may include a first AF magnet (542A) (e.g., the first AF magnet (442A) of FIGS. 5 to 13), a second AF magnet (542B) (e.g., the second AF magnet (442B) of FIGS. 5 to 13), a first AF coil (543A) (e.g., the first AF coil (443A) of FIGS. 5 to 13), a second AF coil (543B) (e.g., the second AF coil (443B) of FIGS. 5 to 13), and a yoke (546) (e.g., the yoke (446) of FIGS. 5 to 13).

[0217] The camera module (500) may include an OIS actuator (550) (e.g., the OIS actuator (450) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the OIS actuator (450) of FIGS. 14 to 18, and / or the OIS actuator (450) of FIG. 21). The OIS actuator (550) may be configured to drive the image sensor (530) in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A) (e.g., in the XY plane direction).

[0218] The OIS actuator (550) may include an OIS carrier (551) (e.g., the OIS carrier (451) of FIGS. 5 to 13 and / or the OIS carrier (451) of FIGS. 14 to 18). The OIS carrier (551) may include an OIS carrier base (551A), a first OIS carrier side wall (551B) connected to the OIS carrier base (551A) (e.g., the third OIS carrier side wall (451E) or the +Y-direction carrier wall of FIGS. 5 to 13), and a second OIS carrier side wall (551C) connected to the OIS carrier base (551A) and facing a direction (e.g., the -X direction) substantially orthogonal to the direction (e.g., the +Y direction) in which the first OIS carrier side wall (551B) faces (e.g., the second OIS carrier side wall (451D) or the -X-direction carrier wall of FIGS. 5 to 13).

[0219] The OIS actuator (550) may include a first OIS magnet (552A) (e.g., the first OIS magnet (452A) of FIGS. 5 to 13). The first OIS magnet (552A) may be disposed on the first OIS carrier side wall (551B).

[0220] The OIS actuator (550) may include a second OIS magnet (552B) (e.g., the second OIS magnet (452B) of FIGS. 5 to 13). The second OIS magnet (552B) may be disposed on the second OIS carrier side wall (551C).

[0221] The OIS actuator (550) may include a first OIS coil (553A) (e.g., the first OIS coil (453A) of FIGS. 5 to 13). The first OIS coil (553A) may be placed in the fourth hole (521J).

[0222] The OIS actuator (550) may include a second OIS coil (553B) (e.g., the second OIS coil (453B) of FIGS. 5 to 13). The second OIS coil (553B) may be placed in the third hole (521I).

[0223] The camera module (500) may include a middle carrier (570), which may be referred to as a “middle guide.” The middle carrier (570) may include a middle carrier base (570A), a first middle carrier side wall (570B) connected to the middle carrier base (570A) (e.g., a +X-direction middle carrier side wall), and a second middle carrier side wall (570C) connected to the middle carrier base (570A) and opposite the first middle carrier side wall (570B) (e.g., a -X-direction middle carrier side wall). The middle carrier (570) may be disposed between the AF carrier (541) and the OIS carrier (551).

[0224] The middle carrier (570) can be configured to move in the second direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction) with respect to the OIS carrier (551) through a plurality of first guide grooves (g1) arranged at corner regions of the OIS carrier base (551A) and extending in a second direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction), a plurality of second guide grooves (not shown in the drawing) arranged at corner regions of one side (e.g., the -Z-direction side) of the middle carrier (570) facing the plurality of first guide grooves (g1) and extending in a second direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction), and a plurality of first guide balls (b1) each in contact with the first guide grooves (g1) and the second guide grooves.

[0225] The AF carrier (541) can be configured to move in the first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction) with respect to the middle carrier (570) through a plurality of third guide grooves (g2) arranged at corner regions of the other side (e.g., the +Z-direction side) of the middle carrier (570) and extending in the first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction), a plurality of fourth guide grooves (not shown in the drawing) arranged at corner regions of one side (e.g., the -Z-direction side) of the first carrier (541) and facing the plurality of third guide grooves (g2) and extending in the first direction (e.g., the X-axis direction), and a plurality of second guide balls (b2) each in contact with the third guide groove (g2) and the fourth guide groove.

[0226] The camera module (500) may include a first guide (G1). The first guide (G1) may include a first groove (G11), a second groove (G12), and a plurality of first balls (B1).

[0227] The first groove (G11) may be arranged in the first AF carrier side wall (541B) between the first AF carrier corner area (C21) and the second AF carrier corner area (C22). The first groove (G11) may extend along the first AF carrier side wall (541B) in the height direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) of the first AF carrier side wall (541B).

[0228] The second groove (G12) may be arranged in the first housing side wall (521B) between the first housing corner region (C11) and the second housing corner region (C12). The second groove (G12) may extend along the second housing side wall (521B) in the height direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction) of the first housing side wall (521B).

[0229] The plurality of first balls (B1) may include a plurality of first main balls (B11, B12), and a plurality of first sub balls (B13) arranged between the plurality of first main balls (B11, B12). One first main ball (B11), the plurality of first sub balls (B13), and another first main ball (B12) may be arranged in an extension direction (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) of the first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) from the OIS carrier base (551A). In an embodiment not shown, the first guide (G1) may not include a sub ball. In an embodiment not shown, the first guide (G1) may include a single first sub ball (B13).

[0230] The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may be positioned within a length range of L / 4 on the first side (e.g., +Y direction side) and within a length range of L / 4 on the second side (e.g., -Y direction side) based on the center area of ​​the width of the camera module (500). The width of the camera module (500) may be defined by the length between the first housing corner area (C11) and the second housing corner area (C12).

[0231] The camera module (500) may include a second guide (G2). The second guide (G2) may include a third groove (G21), a fourth groove (G22), and a plurality of second balls (B2).

[0232] The third groove (G21) may be positioned in the first AF carrier corner area (C21). The third groove (G21) may extend along the first AF carrier side wall (541B) in the height direction (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) of the first AF carrier side wall (541B).

[0233] The fourth groove (G22) may be positioned in the first housing corner region (C11). The fourth groove (G22) may extend along the first housing side wall (521B) in the height direction (e.g., in the Z-axis direction) of the first housing side wall (521B).

[0234] The plurality of second balls (B2) may include a second main ball (B21) and a second sub ball (B22) arranged on the second main ball (B21). The second main ball (B21) and the second sub ball (B22) may be arranged from the OIS carrier base (551A). In an embodiment not shown, the second guide (G2) may include a plurality of second main balls (B21). In an embodiment not shown, the second guide (G2) may not include a sub ball.

[0235] The camera module (500) may include a flexible printed circuit board (580) (e.g., the flexible printed circuit board (480) of FIGS. 5 to 13). The flexible printed circuit board (580) includes a first substrate area (580A) disposed on a first housing side wall (521B) (e.g., the first substrate area (480A) or the +X-direction substrate area of ​​FIGS. 5 to 13), a second substrate area (580B) disposed on a third housing side wall (521D) (e.g., the second substrate area (480B) or the +Y-direction substrate area of ​​FIGS. 5 to 13), a third substrate area (580C) connected to the second substrate area (580B) and opposite to the first substrate area (580A) and disposed on the second housing side wall (521C) (e.g., the third substrate area (480C) or the -X-direction substrate area of ​​FIGS. 5 to 13), and a second substrate area connected to the first substrate area (580A) and the third substrate area (580C). The fourth substrate region (580D) opposite to the region (580B) (e.g., a -Y-direction substrate region), and a fifth substrate region (580E) connected to the fourth substrate region (580D) and oriented in a direction substantially orthogonal to the directions in which the first substrate region (580A), the second substrate region (580B), the third substrate region (580C), and the fourth substrate region (580D) are oriented (e.g., a Z-axis direction) may be included. The image sensor (530) may be disposed in the fifth substrate region (580E).

[0236] Fig. 31 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to one embodiment. Fig. 32 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to one embodiment.

[0237] Referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, a camera module (500-1) (e.g., the camera module (180) of FIG. 1, the camera module (180) of FIG. 2, the second camera module (380B) and / or the third camera module (380D) of FIGS. 3 and 4, the camera module (400) of FIGS. 5 to 13, the camera module (400-1) of FIGS. 14 to 18, the camera module (400-2) of FIGS. 19 and 20, the camera module (400-3) of FIG. 21, the camera module (400-4) of FIG. 22, the camera module (400-5) of FIG. 23, the camera module (400-6) of FIGS. 24 and 25, and / or the camera module (500) of FIGS. 26 to 30) may include a lens assembly (510). The lens assembly (510) may include a plurality of lenses (511) having a defined optical axis (A), a lens housing (512), and a lens holder (513). The camera module (500-1) may include a camera housing (520). The camera housing (520) may include a base frame (521) and a cover frame (522). The camera module (500-1) may include a reflector (535). The camera module (500-1) may include an AF actuator (540). The AF actuator (540) may include an AF carrier (541), an AF magnet (542A), an AF magnet (542B), an AF coil (543A), an AF coil (543B), and a yoke (546). The camera module (500-1) may include an OIS actuator (550). The OIS actuator (550) may include an OIS carrier (551), a first OIS magnet (552A), a second OIS magnet (552B), a first OIS coil (553A), and a second OIS coil (553B). The camera module (500-1) may include a first guide (G1). The first guide (G1) may include a first groove (G11), a second groove (G12), and a plurality of first balls (B1).The camera module (500-1) may include a second guide (G2). The second guide (G2) may include a third groove (G21), a fourth groove (G22), and at least one second ball (B2).

[0238] The camera module (500-1) may not include a middle carrier (e.g., the middle carrier (570) of FIGS. 26 to 30) disposed between the AF carrier (541) and the OIS carrier (551). By forming a plurality of guide grooves (g) (e.g., the first guide groove (g1) and / or the third guide groove (g2) of FIGS. 26 to 30) arranged in corner regions of one side (e.g., the +Z-direction side) of the OIS carrier (551) and a plurality of guide grooves (not shown in the drawings) arranged on one side (e.g., the -Z-direction side) of the AF carrier (541) without forming them in a specific axis (e.g., the X-axis or the Y-axis) direction, and by contacting a plurality of guide balls therebetween, the movement of the AF carrier (541) in a specific axis (e.g., the X-axis or the Y-axis) with respect to the OIS carrier (551) can be guided in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A) (e.g., the XY plane direction).

[0239] One aspect of the disclosure can provide a camera module with a reduced size. The technical problems to be solved by the present disclosure are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0240] A camera module (400) may include a lens (411) having an optical axis (A). The camera module (400) may include an auto focus (AF) carrier (441) configured to carry the lens (411) in a direction along the optical axis (A). The AF carrier (441) may include a plurality of AF carrier corner regions (C21, C22, C23, C24). The AF carrier (441) may include a plurality of AF carrier side walls (441B, 441C, 441D, 441E) respectively positioned between adjacent AF carrier corner regions (C21, C22, C23, C24). The camera module (400) may include a camera housing (420) configured to accommodate the AF carrier (441). The camera housing (420) may include a plurality of housing corner regions (C11, C12, C13, C14). The camera housing (420) may include a plurality of housing side walls (421B, 421C, 421D, 421E) respectively positioned between adjacent housing corner regions (C11, C12, C13, C14). The camera module (400) may include a first guide (G1) configured to guide the AF carrier (441) relative to the camera housing (420) along the optical axis (A). The first guide (G1) may include a first groove (G11) disposed in a first AF carrier side wall (441B) among the plurality of AF carrier side walls (441B, 441C, 441D, 441E). The first guide (G1) may include a second groove (G12) disposed on a first housing side wall (421B) facing the first groove (G11) and facing the first AF carrier side wall (441B) among the plurality of housing side walls (421B, 421C, 421D, 421E).The camera module (400) may include a second guide (G2) configured to guide the AF carrier (441) relative to the camera housing (420) along the optical axis (A). The second guide (G2) may include a third groove (G21) disposed in a first AF carrier corner region (C21) adjacent to the first AF carrier side wall (441B) among the plurality of AF carrier corner regions (C21, C22, C23, C24). The second guide (G2) may include a fourth groove (G22) disposed in a first housing corner region (C11) adjacent to the first housing side wall (421B) among the plurality of housing corner regions (C11, C12, C13, C14) and facing the third groove (G21). The camera module (400) may include a first AF magnet (442A) disposed between the first groove (G11) and the first AF carrier corner area (C21). The camera module (400) may include a second AF magnet (442B) disposed between the first groove (G11) and a second AF carrier corner area (C22) opposite to the first AF carrier corner area (C21). The camera module (400) may include a first AF coil (443A) disposed between the second groove (G12) and the first housing corner area (C11) and facing the first AF magnet (442A). The above camera module (400) may include a second AF coil (443B) facing the second AF magnet (442B) and positioned between the second groove (G12) and the second housing corner area (C12) opposite the first housing corner area (C11).

[0241] The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may be positioned within a range of ±1 / 4 of the length (L) of the first housing side wall (421B) based on the center area of ​​the first housing side wall (421B).

[0242] The size of the above first AF magnet (442A) may be larger than the size of the above second AF magnet (442B).

[0243] The above camera module (400) may include an optical image stabilizing (OIS) carrier (451) disposed inside the AF carrier (441).

[0244] The OIS carrier (451) may include a first OIS carrier side wall (451C) facing the first AF carrier side wall (441B). The OIS carrier (451) may include a second OIS carrier side wall (451D) opposite the first OIS carrier side wall (451C). The OIS carrier (451) may include a third OIS carrier side wall (451E) located between the first OIS carrier side wall (451C) and the second OIS carrier side wall (451D). The OIS carrier (451) may include a fourth OIS carrier side wall (451F) opposite the third OIS carrier side wall (451E) and located between the first OIS carrier side wall (451C) and the second OIS carrier side wall (451D). The camera module (400) may include a first OIS magnet (452A) disposed on the third OIS carrier side wall (451E). The camera module (400) may include at least one first OIS coil (453A) facing the first OIS magnet (452A). The camera module (400) may include a second OIS magnet (452B) disposed on the second OIS carrier side wall (451D). The camera module (400) may include at least one second OIS coil (453B) facing the second OIS magnet (452B).

[0245] The camera module (400) may include a third guide (G3) configured to guide the AF carrier (441) relative to the camera housing (420) along the optical axis (A). The third guide (G3) may include a fifth groove (G31) arranged in the second AF carrier corner area (C22). The third guide (G3) may include a sixth groove (G32) arranged in the second housing corner area (C12).

[0246] The above camera housing (420) may include a bottom portion (421A). The first guide (G1) may include a first ball (B1) positioned adjacent to the bottom portion (421A).

[0247] At least a portion of the first AF magnet (442A) and at least a portion of the second AF magnet (442B) can be physically connected to each other.

[0248] The above camera module (400-1) may include a metal piece (445) that overlaps a connecting portion (442AB) between the first AF magnet (442A) and the second AF magnet (442B) when viewed in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A) and is disposed between the first AF coil (443A) and the second AF coil (443B).

[0249] The shape of the second guide (G2) and the shape of the third guide (G3) may be substantially symmetrical to each other.

[0250] The first guide (G1) may include a first ball (B1) in contact with the first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12). The second guide (G2) may include a second ball (B2) in contact with the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22). The third guide (G3) may include a third ball (B3) in contact with the fifth groove (G31) and the sixth groove (G32). When the second ball (B2) is in contact with the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22), the second ball (B2) can be supported by at least one support surface of the third groove (G21) and at least two support surfaces of the fourth groove (G22). When the third ball (B3) is in contact with the fifth groove (G31) and the sixth groove (G32), the third ball (B3) can be supported by at least one support surface of the fifth groove (G31) and at least two support surfaces of the sixth groove (G32).

[0251] At least one support surface of the fourth groove (G22) may be substantially parallel to at least one support surface of the third groove (G21). At least one support surface of the sixth groove (G32) may be substantially parallel to at least one support surface of the fifth groove (G31).

[0252] The camera housing (420) may include a bottom portion (421A). The first guide (G1) may include a first main ball (B11). The first guide (G1) may include a first sub-ball (B13) having a size smaller than that of the first main ball (B11) and disposed on the first main ball (B11). The second guide (G2) may include a second main ball (B21). The second guide (G2) may include a second sub-ball (B22) having a size smaller than that of the second main ball (B21) and disposed between the bottom portion (421A) and the second main ball (B21). The third guide (G3) may include a third main ball (B31). The third guide (G3) may have a size smaller than that of the third main ball (B31) and may include a third sub ball (B32) positioned between the bottom portion (421A) and the third main ball (B31).

[0253] The camera housing (420) may include a bottom portion (421A). The first guide (G1) may include a first main ball (B11). The first guide (G1) may include a first sub-ball (B13) having a size smaller than that of the first main ball (B11) and positioned between the bottom portion (421A) and the first main ball (B11). The second guide (G2) may include a second main ball (B21). The second guide (G2) may include a second sub-ball (B22) having a size smaller than that of the second main ball (B21) and positioned on the second main ball (B21). The third guide (G3) may include a third main ball (B31). The third guide (G3) may have a size smaller than that of the third main ball (B31) and may include a third sub ball (B32) placed on the third main ball (B31).

[0254] The camera module (400-2) may include a first AF drive (444) electrically connected to the first AF coil (443A). The camera module (400-2) may include a second AF drive (444) electrically connected to the second AF coil (443B).

[0255] The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may each include a generally V-shaped groove. One of the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22) may include a generally V-shaped groove, and the other groove may include a generally U-shaped groove.

[0256] The above first guide (G1) may include a shaft (GS). The above second guide (G2) may include a ball (B2).

[0257] A camera module (500) may include a lens (511) having an optical axis (A). The camera module (500) may include an image sensor (530). The camera module (500) may include a reflector (535) configured to reflect light passing through the lens (511) toward the image sensor (530). The camera module (500) may include an autofocus (AF) carrier (541) configured to transport the image sensor (530) in a direction along the optical axis (A). The AF carrier (541) may include a plurality of AF carrier corner regions (C21, C22, C23, C24). The AF carrier (541) may include a first AF carrier side wall (541B) positioned between adjacent AF carrier corner regions (C21, C22). The camera module (500) may include a camera housing (520) configured to accommodate the AF carrier (541). The camera housing (520) may include a plurality of housing corner regions (C11, C12, C13, C14). The camera housing (520) may include a first housing side wall (521B) positioned between adjacent housing corner regions (C11, C12) and facing the first AF carrier side wall (541B). The camera module (500) may include a first guide (G1) configured to guide the AF carrier (541) relative to the camera housing (520) along the optical axis (A). The first guide (G1) may include a first groove (G11) disposed in the first AF carrier side wall (541B). The first guide (G1) may include a second groove (G12) facing the first groove (G11) and arranged on the first housing side wall (521B).The camera module (500) may include a second guide (G2) configured to guide the AF carrier (541) relative to the camera housing (520) along the optical axis (A). The second guide (G2) may include a third groove (G21) disposed in a first AF carrier corner area (C21) adjacent to the first AF carrier side wall (541B). The second guide (G2) may include a fourth groove (G22) disposed in a first housing corner area (C11) facing the third groove (G21) and adjacent to the first housing side wall (521B). The camera module (500) may include a first AF magnet (542A) disposed between the first groove (G11) and the first AF carrier corner area (C21). The camera module (500) may include a second AF magnet (542B) disposed in a second AF carrier corner area (C22) opposite the first groove (G11) and the first AF carrier corner area (C21). The camera module (500) may include a first AF coil (543A) facing the first AF magnet (542A) and disposed between the second groove (G12) and the first housing corner area (C11). The camera module (500) may include a second AF coil (543B) facing the second AF magnet (542B) and disposed between the second groove (G12) and the second housing corner area (C12) opposite the first housing corner area (C11).

[0258] The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) may be positioned within a range of ±1 / 4 of the length (L) of the first housing side wall (521B) based on the center area of ​​the first housing side wall (521B).

[0259] The above camera module (500) may include an OIS carrier (551) configured to carry the image sensor (530) in directions substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A).

[0260] The camera module (500) may include a middle carrier (570) arranged between the AF carrier (541) and the OIS carrier (551) and configured to restrict movement of the image sensor (530) in any one of the directions substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A).

[0261] The electronic device (101; 301) may include the camera module (400; 500).

[0262] According to one embodiment, the tilt safety factor may be increased. The effects of the camera module and the electronic device including the same according to the embodiments are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description herein.

[0263] The embodiments described herein are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Various modifications to the details of the disclosure, including those included within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents, may be made. Any of the embodiments described herein may be used in combination with any of the embodiments described herein.

Claims

1. A lens (411) having an optical axis (A), An auto focus (AF) carrier (441) configured to transport the lens (411) in a direction along the optical axis (A), wherein the AF carrier (441) is Multiple AF carrier corner areas (C21, C22, C23, C24), and The AF carrier (441) comprising a plurality of AF carrier side walls (441B, 441C, 441D, 441E) each positioned between adjacent AF carrier corner areas (C21, C22, C23, C24), A camera housing (420) configured to accommodate the above AF carrier (441), wherein the camera housing (420) is Multiple housing corner areas (C11, C12, C13, C14), and The camera housing (420) comprises a plurality of housing side walls (421B, 421C, 421D, 421E) each positioned between adjacent housing corner areas (C11, C12, C13, C14), A first guide (G1) configured to guide the AF carrier (441) relative to the camera housing (420) along the optical axis (A), wherein the first guide (G1) comprises: A first groove (G11) arranged on a first AF carrier side wall (441C) among the plurality of AF carrier side walls (441B, 441C, 441D, 441E), and A second groove (G12) disposed on the first housing side wall (421B) facing the first groove (G11) and facing the first AF carrier side wall (441B) among the plurality of housing side walls (421B, 421C, 421D, 421E) The first guide (G1), including A second guide (G2) configured to guide the AF carrier (441) relative to the camera housing (420) along the optical axis (A), wherein the second guide (G2) comprises: A third groove (G21) disposed in the first AF carrier corner area (C21) adjacent to the first AF carrier side wall (441C) among the plurality of AF carrier corner areas (C21, C22, C23, C24), and A fourth groove (G22) facing the third groove (G21) and arranged in the first housing corner region (C11) adjacent to the first housing side wall (421B) among the plurality of housing corner regions (C11, C12, C13, C14) The second guide (G2), which includes A first AF magnet (442A) arranged between the first groove (G11) and the first AF carrier corner area (C21), A second AF magnet (442B) arranged between the first groove (G11) and the second AF carrier corner area (C22) opposite to the first AF carrier corner area (C21), A first AF coil (443A) facing the first AF magnet (442A) and positioned between the second groove (G12) and the first housing corner area (C11), and A second AF coil (443B) facing the second AF magnet (442B) and positioned between the second groove (G12) and the second housing corner area (C12) opposite to the first housing corner area (C11) A camera module (400) including:

2. In paragraph 1, A camera module in which the first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) are positioned within a range of ±1 / 4 of the length (L) of the first housing side wall (421B) based on the center area of ​​the first housing side wall (421B).

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, A camera module in which the size of the first AF magnet (442A) is larger than the size of the second AF magnet (442B).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, Further comprising an optical image stabilizing (OIS) carrier (451) disposed inside the above AF carrier (441), Preferably, the OIS carrier (451) A first OIS carrier side wall (451C) facing the first AF carrier side wall (441B), A second OIS carrier side wall (451D) opposite to the first OIS carrier side wall (451C), A third OIS carrier side wall (451E) between the first OIS carrier side wall (451C) and the second OIS carrier side wall (451D), and A fourth OIS carrier side wall (451F) is disposed opposite to the third OIS carrier side wall (451E) and between the first OIS carrier side wall (451C) and the second OIS carrier side wall (451D), The above camera module (400) is A first OIS magnet (452A) arranged on the third OIS carrier side wall (451E), At least one first OIS coil (453A) facing the first OIS magnet (452A), A second OIS magnet (452B) arranged on the second OIS carrier side wall (451D), and A camera module further comprising at least one second OIS coil (453B) facing the second OIS magnet (452B).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, Further comprising a third guide (G3) configured to guide the AF carrier (441) to the camera housing (420) along the optical axis (A); The above third guide (G3) is, The fifth groove (G31) arranged in the second AF carrier corner area (C22), and Including a sixth groove (G32) arranged in the second housing corner area (C12), Preferably, the camera housing (420) includes a bottom portion (421A), The above first guide (G1) is a camera module including a first ball (B1) positioned adjacent to the bottom portion (421A).

6. In paragraph 5, At least a portion of the first AF magnet (442A) and at least a portion of the second AF magnet (442B) are physically connected to each other, Preferably, a camera module further comprising a metal piece (445) that overlaps a connecting portion (442AB) between the first AF magnet (442A) and the second AF magnet (442B) when viewed in a direction substantially orthogonal to the optical axis (A) and is disposed between the first AF coil (443A) and the second AF coil (443B).

7. In paragraph 5 or 6, A camera module in which the shape of the second guide (G2) and the shape of the third guide (G3) are substantially symmetrical to each other.

8. In any one of paragraphs 5 to 7, The first guide (G1) further includes a first ball (B1) in contact with the first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12), The second guide (G2) further includes a second ball (B2) in contact with the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22), The third guide (G3) further includes a third ball (B3) in contact with the fifth groove (G31) and the sixth groove (G32), When the second ball (B2) comes into contact with the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22), the second ball (B2) is supported by at least one support surface of the third groove (G21) and at least two support surfaces of the fourth groove (G22), When the third ball (B3) comes into contact with the fifth groove (G31) and the sixth groove (G32), the third ball (B3) is supported by at least one support surface of the fifth groove (G31) and at least two support surfaces of the sixth groove (G32), Preferably, at least one support surface of the fourth groove (G22) is substantially parallel to at least one support surface of the third groove (G21), A camera module wherein at least one support surface of the sixth groove (G32) is substantially parallel to at least one support surface of the fifth groove (G31).

9. In any one of paragraphs 5 to 8, The above camera housing (420) includes a bottom portion (421A), The above first guide (G1) is, 1st main ball (B11), and Further comprising a first sub-ball (B13) having a size smaller than that of the first main ball (B11) and arranged on the first main ball (B11), The above second guide (G2) is, Second main ball (B21), and It further includes a second sub-ball (B22) having a size smaller than that of the second main ball (B21) and arranged between the bottom portion (421A) and the second main ball (B21), The above third guide (G3) is, Third main ball (B31), and A camera module further comprising a third sub-ball (B32) having a size smaller than that of the third main ball (B31) and positioned between the bottom portion (421A) and the third main ball (B31).

10. In any one of paragraphs 5 to 9, The above camera housing (420) includes a bottom portion (421A), The above first guide (G1) is, 1st main ball (B11), and It further includes a first sub-ball (B13) having a size smaller than that of the first main ball (B11) and arranged between the bottom portion (421A) and the first main ball (B11). The above second guide (G2) is, Second main ball (B21), and Further comprising a second sub-ball (B22) having a size smaller than that of the second main ball (B21) and arranged on the second main ball (B21), The above third guide (G3) is, Third main ball (B31), and A camera module further comprising a third sub-ball (B32) having a size smaller than that of the third main ball (B31) and arranged on the third main ball (B31).

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, A first AF drive (444) electrically connected to the first AF coil (443A), and A second AF drive (444) electrically connected to the second AF coil (443B) A camera module that further includes:

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The first groove (G11) and the second groove (G12) each generally include a V-shaped groove, A camera module, wherein one of the third groove (G21) and the fourth groove (G22) comprises a generally V-shaped groove, and the other groove comprises a generally U-shaped groove.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, A camera module wherein the first guide (G1) includes a shaft (GS) and the second guide (G2) includes a ball (B2).

14. A lens (511) having an optical axis (A), Image sensor (530), A reflector (535) configured to reflect light passing through the lens (511) toward the image sensor (530); An auto focus (AF) carrier (541) configured to transport the image sensor (530) in a direction along the optical axis (A), wherein the AF carrier (541) comprises: Multiple AF carrier corner areas (C21, C22, C23, C24), and The AF carrier (541) including a first AF carrier side wall (541B) positioned between adjacent AF carrier corner areas (C21, C22), A camera housing (520) configured to accommodate the above AF carrier (541), wherein the camera housing (520) is Multiple housing corner areas (C11, C12, C13, C14), and The camera housing (520) comprises a first housing side wall (521B) positioned between adjacent housing corner areas (C11, C12) and facing the first AF carrier side wall (541B), A first guide (G1) configured to guide the AF carrier (541) relative to the camera housing (520) along the optical axis (A), wherein the first guide (G1) comprises: A first groove (G11) arranged on the first AF carrier side wall (541B), and A second groove (G12) facing the first groove (G11) and arranged on the first housing side wall (521B) The first guide (G1), including As a second guide (G2) configured to guide the AF carrier (541) to the camera housing (520) along the optical axis (A), the second guide (G2) A third groove (G21) arranged in the first AF carrier corner area (C21) adjacent to the first AF carrier side wall (541B), and A fourth groove (G22) facing the third groove (G21) and positioned in the first housing corner area (C11) adjacent to the first housing side wall (521B) The second guide (G2), which includes A first AF magnet (542A) disposed between the first groove (G11) and the first AF carrier corner area (C21), A second AF magnet (542B) arranged in the second AF carrier corner area (C22) opposite to the first groove (G11) and the first AF carrier corner area (C21), A first AF coil (543A) facing the first AF magnet (542A) and positioned between the second groove (G12) and the first housing corner area (C11), and A second AF coil (543B) facing the second AF magnet (542B) and positioned between the second groove (G12) and the second housing corner area (C12) opposite to the first housing corner area (C11) A camera module (500) including:

15. An electronic device (101; 301) comprising a camera module (400; 500) according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

Images