Camera actuator and camera module comprising same

Abstract

An embodiment discloses a camera actuator comprising: first to third lens assemblies spaced apart from each other in a first direction in which light is incident; a prism disposed below the third lens assembly; and an image sensor disposed below the prism, wherein the first to third lens assemblies do not overlap the image sensor in the first direction, and the prism extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

Description

Camera actuator and camera module including the same

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

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

[0003] Conventional camera modules consist of multiple lens groups and prisms, and the magnification is changed by adjusting the position of the lenses along the optical axis. In this case, the image sensor is vertically aligned with the camera module, making it difficult to reduce the height of the camera module, limiting miniaturization. Furthermore, because the camera uses a fixed height equal to the lens portion, there are limitations in freely adjusting the camera module specifications based on the height. Furthermore, as cameras become smaller, their driving and optical performance deteriorate due to factors such as magnetic fields.

[0004] The embodiment provides a camera module capable of extending the magnification range.

[0005] Additionally, a camera module that can reduce the module size is provided.

[0006] Additionally, it provides a camera module that can improve performance while maintaining a thin module thickness.

[0007] Additionally, it provides camera actuators and camera modules with improved driving performance and optical performance.

[0008] Additionally, a camera actuator and camera module with an increased driving range of the lens are provided.

[0009] Additionally, it provides a camera actuator and camera module with increased driving force.

[0010] Additionally, it provides miniaturized camera actuators and camera modules.

[0011] The problem to be solved in the embodiment is not limited to this, and it can be said that the purpose or effect that can be understood from the solution or embodiment of the problem described below is also included.

[0012] A camera actuator according to an embodiment includes a first lens assembly to a third lens assembly spaced apart from each other in a first direction in which light is incident; a prism disposed at a lower end of the third lens assembly; and an image sensor disposed at a lower end of the prism, wherein the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly do not overlap with the image sensor in the first direction, and the prism can extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0013] The above light can be incident on the image sensor in the first direction.

[0014] The prism may include a first surface that reflects light passing through the third lens assembly and a second surface that reflects the light to the image sensor.

[0015] The prism may include a third surface onto which light passing through the third lens assembly is incident and a fourth surface parallel to the third surface.

[0016] The third side and the fourth side can cause the light reflected by the first side to be totally reflected inside the prism and reach the second side.

[0017] A camera module according to an embodiment may include the camera actuator; a housing; and a first folding part and a second folding part disposed on the housing.

[0018] The camera actuator is disposed within the housing and can overlap the first folding portion and the second folding portion in the first direction.

[0019] The second folding part is arranged to surround the first folding part, and the diameter of the first folding part may be smaller than the diameter of the second folding part.

[0020] The first folding part and the second folding part can move in the first direction, and the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly can move in the first direction inside the first folding part and the second folding part.

[0021] The first folding portion includes an opening, and the light can enter the first lens assembly in the first direction through the opening.

[0022] The maximum movement distance of the second folding portion in the first direction may be equal to the width of the housing in the first direction.

[0023] The maximum movement distance of the first folding part in the first direction may be greater than the maximum movement distance of the second folding part in the first direction.

[0024] The camera module may include a first state in which the first folding part is positioned at the lowest position in the first direction and a second state in which the first folding part is positioned at the highest position in the first direction.

[0025] In the first state, the first folding portion can completely overlap the second folding portion in the second direction.

[0026] The maximum movement distance of the first folding portion in the first direction may be equal to the width of the camera module in the first direction in the first state.

[0027] In the second state, the width of the camera module in the first direction may be twice the width of the camera module in the first state.

[0028] The image sensor may not overlap the first folding portion and the second folding portion in the first direction.

[0029] A camera actuator according to an embodiment includes a first lens assembly; a first carrier coupled to the first lens assembly and moving in an optical axis direction; a first magnet and a second magnet coupled to the first carrier and spaced apart in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction; a first coil adjacent to the first magnet and a second coil adjacent to the second magnet, wherein the first coil and the second coil may each include an overlapping region in the first direction and a non-overlapping region in the first direction.

[0030] The first carrier includes a first rail and a second rail on which a plurality of balls move, and the first rail and the second rail can be spaced apart in the first direction.

[0031] The first magnet and the second magnet may be spaced apart from the first lens assembly in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction and the first direction, the first rail may be disposed between the first magnet and the first lens assembly, and the second rail may be disposed between the second magnet and the first lens assembly.

[0032] It includes a first coil yoke coupled with the first coil and a second coil yoke coupled with the second coil, wherein the first coil yoke can be arranged in a first coil groove of the first coil, and the second coil yoke can be arranged in a second coil groove of the second coil.

[0033] The first coil groove can penetrate the first coil in the direction of the optical axis, and the second coil groove can penetrate the second coil in the direction of the optical axis.

[0034] The width in the optical axis direction of the region where the first coil and the second coil overlap in the first direction may be smaller than the width in the optical axis direction of the region where the first coil and the second coil do not overlap in the first direction.

[0035] The first carrier may include a first surface and a second surface spaced apart in the first direction, the first surface may include a first magnet groove in which the first magnet is disposed, and the second surface may include a second magnet groove in which the second magnet is disposed.

[0036] The distance between the first rail and the second rail in the first direction may be greater than the distance between the first magnet groove and the second magnet groove in the first direction.

[0037] The first surface of the first carrier may include a first inclined surface between the first rail and the first magnet groove, and the second surface of the first carrier may include a second inclined surface between the second rail and the second magnet groove.

[0038] A camera actuator according to an embodiment may include a first rail assembly adjacent to the first rail and a second rail assembly adjacent to the second rail; and a first base for fixing the first rail assembly and the second rail assembly.

[0039] The ball may move between the first rail and the first rail assembly and between the second rail and the second rail assembly, wherein the first rail assembly may include a first support portion in contact with the first base, and the second rail assembly may include a second support portion in contact with the first base.

[0040] The rail surface of the first rail assembly and the rail surface of the second rail assembly may be spaced apart in the first direction and arranged to face each other.

[0041] The widths of the first coil and the second coil in the second direction may be greater than the widths of the first coil and the second coil in the first direction.

[0042] The first carrier may partially overlap the first coil and the second coil in the first direction.

[0043] A camera actuator according to an embodiment may include a first ball guide for fixing the plurality of balls on the first rail and a second ball guide for fixing the plurality of balls on the second rail.

[0044] A camera actuator according to an embodiment includes a second lens assembly overlapping the first lens assembly in the optical axis direction; a second carrier coupled to the second lens assembly; a third magnet and a fourth magnet coupled to the second carrier and spaced apart in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction; a third coil adjacent to the third magnet and a fourth coil adjacent to the fourth magnet, wherein the third coil does not overlap the second coil in the first direction and the second direction, and the third coil may include a region overlapping the first coil in the second direction and a region not overlapping in the second direction.

[0045] The fourth coil may not overlap with the first coil in the first direction and the second direction, and the fourth coil may include a region overlapping with the second coil in the second direction and a region not overlapping with the second direction.

[0046] The area of ​​the third coil overlapping with the first coil in the second direction may be the same as the area of ​​the third coil overlapping with the fourth coil in the first direction.

[0047] According to an embodiment, a camera module capable of expanding the magnification range can be provided.

[0048] Additionally, a camera module capable of miniaturizing the module size can be provided.

[0049] Additionally, a camera module can be provided that can improve performance while maintaining a thin module thickness.

[0050] Additionally, a camera actuator and camera module with improved driving performance and optical performance can be provided.

[0051] Additionally, a camera actuator and camera module with an increased driving range of the lens can be provided.

[0052] Additionally, a camera actuator and camera module with increased driving force can be provided.

[0053] Additionally, a miniaturized camera actuator and camera module can be provided.

[0054] The various advantageous and beneficial effects of the present invention are not limited to the above-described contents, and will be more easily understood in the course of explaining specific embodiments of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a first state of a camera actuator according to an embodiment,

[0056] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of a first state of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0057] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a second state of a camera actuator according to an embodiment;

[0058] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of a second state of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0059] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0060] Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment;

[0061] Figure 7 is a cross-section taken along line AA' in Figure 5,

[0062] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment;

[0063] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a first actuator of a camera actuator according to an embodiment;

[0064] Fig. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a first actuator of a camera actuator according to an embodiment;

[0065] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the first carrier and magnet according to the embodiment;

[0066] Fig. 12 is a front view of the first carrier according to the embodiment;

[0067] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a first base and a first substrate according to an embodiment;

[0068] Fig. 14 is a perspective view and a top view of the first coil and the second coil according to the embodiment,

[0069] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of the first base and the first coil and the second coil combined according to the embodiment.

[0070] Fig. 16 is a side view of the first base and the first coil and the second coil combined according to the embodiment.

[0071] Fig. 17 is a perspective view of the first rail assembly and the second rail assembly according to the embodiment;

[0072] Fig. 18 is a perspective view of the first ball guide and the second ball guide according to the embodiment;

[0073] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the first base, the first and second rail assemblies, and the first and second ball guides combined according to the embodiment;

[0074] Fig. 20 is a cross-section taken along BB' in Fig. 9.

[0075] Fig. 21 is a drawing showing the position of the first carrier according to the driving of the camera actuator according to the embodiment.

[0076] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of a second actuator of a camera actuator according to an embodiment;

[0077] Fig. 23 is a cross-section viewed along CC' in Fig. 22,

[0078] Fig. 24 is a top view of the first to fourth coils according to the embodiment,

[0079] Fig. 25 is a side view of the first to fourth coils according to the embodiment;

[0080] Fig. 26 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0081] Fig. 27 is a perspective view of a vehicle to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0082] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0083] However, the technical idea of ​​the present invention is not limited to some of the embodiments described, but can be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, one or more of the components between the embodiments can be selectively combined or substituted for use.

[0084] In addition, terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as having a meaning that can be generally understood by a person of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined and described, and terms that are commonly used, such as terms defined in a dictionary, may be interpreted in consideration of the contextual meaning of the relevant technology.

[0085] Additionally, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are intended to describe the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0086] In this specification, the singular may also include the plural unless specifically stated otherwise in the phrase, and when it is described as “A and / or at least one (or more) of B, C”, it may include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B, C.

[0087] Additionally, in describing components of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used.

[0088] These terms are intended only to distinguish one component from another, and are not intended to limit the nature, order, or sequence of the component.

[0089] And, when a component is described as being 'connected', 'coupled' or 'connected' to another component, it may include not only cases where the component is directly connected, coupled or connected to the other component, but also cases where the component is 'connected', 'coupled' or 'connected' by another component between the component and the other component.

[0090] Additionally, when described as being formed or arranged "above or below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where the two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or arranged between the two components. Furthermore, when expressed as "above" or "below", it can include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction based on one component.

[0091] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a first state of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 1, a camera actuator (100) according to an embodiment may include a first lens assembly (110), a second lens assembly (120), a third lens assembly (130), a prism (140), an image sensor (150), and a filter (160).

[0093] The camera actuator (100) can be placed inside the camera module and can focus light and recognize it through an image sensor. The camera actuator (100) can include an OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) actuator and an AF (Auto Focusing) actuator. The OIS actuator can implement OIS by controlling the optical path, thereby minimizing the occurrence of decent or tilt phenomena and producing the best optical characteristics. The OIS actuator of the camera actuator (100) according to the embodiment can be a method of implementing OIS by tilting the image sensor. The AF actuator can support one or more lenses and move the lenses according to a control signal of a predetermined control unit to perform an auto focusing function or a zoom function. Light can be incident into the interior of the camera actuator (100) through an opening area at the top of the camera actuator (100). The light can be incident into the interior of the camera actuator (100) along an optical axis direction (e.g., a Z-axis direction or a first direction) and reach the first lens assembly (110). Furthermore, the camera actuator (100) can include an optical system and a lens driving unit. In addition, the camera actuator (100) can be equipped with a coil and a magnet to perform a high-magnification zooming function.

[0094] The first lens assembly (110), the second lens assembly (120), and the third lens assembly (130) may be moving lenses that move via coils, magnets, and guide pins. For example, the third lens assembly (130) may function as a focalizer that focuses light on a specific location, and the first lens assembly (110) may function as a variator that refocuses the image focused by the third lens assembly (130), which is a focalizer, on another location. Meanwhile, in the first lens assembly (110), the distance to the subject or the image distance may change significantly, resulting in a large change in magnification, and the first lens assembly (110), which is a variator, may play an important role in the change in the focal length or magnification of the optical system. Meanwhile, the image focus formed by the first lens assembly (110), which is a variator, may slightly differ depending on the location. Accordingly, the second lens assembly (120) can perform a position compensation function for the image formed by the variable lens. For example, the second lens assembly (120) can perform a compensator function that accurately forms the image formed by the first lens assembly (110), which is the variable lens, at the actual image sensor position. For example, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly can be driven by electromagnetic force resulting from the interaction between a coil and a magnet.

[0095] A first lens assembly (110), a second lens assembly (120), and a third lens assembly (130) may be arranged inside a camera actuator (100). The first lens assembly (110), the second lens assembly (120), and the third lens assembly (130) may move inside the camera actuator (100) along a first direction by a driving unit. The first lens assembly (110), the second lens assembly (120), and the third lens assembly (130) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the first direction. The first lens assembly (110) may be positioned at a front end of the second lens assembly (120) and the third lens assembly (130) based on the optical path. The second lens assembly (120) may be positioned between the first lens assembly (110) and the third lens assembly (130). The third lens assembly (130) may be positioned at the rear end of the first lens assembly (110) and the second lens assembly (120) based on the optical path. Light may be incident on the camera actuator (100) and sequentially pass through the first lens assembly (110), the second lens assembly (120), and the third lens assembly (130). Each of the first lens assembly (110), the second lens assembly (120), and the third lens assembly (130) may include a plurality of lenses. The light may sequentially pass through the first lens assembly (110), the second lens assembly (120), and the third lens assembly (130) to reach the prism (140).

[0096] The prism (140) can change the path of light by reflecting light. The prism (140) can change the path of light by totally reflecting the light inside the prism (140). Alternatively, the prism (140) can change the path of light by reflecting the light through a reflective coating disposed on the side. The prism (140) can reflect the light that has passed through the first lens assembly (110), the second lens assembly (120), and the third lens assembly (130) so that the light reaches the image sensor (150). The prism (140) can be disposed at the bottom of the third lens assembly (130). The prism (140) can be disposed at the top of the image sensor (150). The prism (140) can be disposed between the third lens assembly (130) and the image sensor (150) at a predetermined distance in the first direction. In addition, the prism (140) may be disposed between the third lens assembly (130) and the image sensor (150) in the path of light. The prism (140) may partially overlap with the third lens assembly (130) and the image sensor (150) in the first direction. The prism (140) may extend in the second direction. The width of the prism (140) in the second direction may be larger than the width of the prism (140) in the first direction. The prism (140) may not overlap with the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly (110, 120, 130) and the image sensor (150) in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The prism (140) of the camera actuator (100) is disposed between the lens assembly and the image sensor rather than at the top of the lens assembly, thereby allowing the lens assembly and the image sensor to be disposed in the direction perpendicular to the optical axis, thereby reducing the height of the camera module excluding the folding portion. Additionally, the prism (140) of the camera actuator (100) can reflect light multiple times along the direction perpendicular to the optical axis by extending in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.Accordingly, the size of the camera module can be reduced while the focal length of the lens can be increased, thereby increasing the magnification range of the camera module and improving optical performance.

[0097] The prism (140) may include first to fourth surfaces (S1, S2, S3, S4). The first surface (S1) and the second surface (S2) may be side surfaces of the prism (140). The first surface (S1) may be a surface on which light passing through the third lens assembly (130) is reflected. The first surface (S1) may be arranged to overlap with the first lens assembly (110), the second lens assembly (120), and the third lens assembly (130) in a first direction. The first surface (S1) may form a predetermined angle with the first direction. The first surface (S1) may reflect light to the third surface (S3). The second surface (S2) may be a surface that reflects light to the image sensor (150). The second surface (S2) may be arranged to overlap with the image sensor (150) in the first direction. The second surface (S2) can form a certain angle with the first direction. The second surface (S2) can be arranged parallel to the first surface (S1). The third surface (S3) can be an upper surface of the prism (140). The third surface (S3) can be a surface adjacent to the third lens assembly (130). Light passing through the third lens assembly (130) can enter the prism (140) through the third surface (S3). The light can pass through the third surface (S3) and be reflected on the first surface (S1). The third surface (S3) can be arranged perpendicular to the first direction. The light can be reflected on the first surface (S1) and then reflected again on the third surface (S3). The third surface (S3) can totally reflect the light reflected on the first surface (S1). The third surface (S3) can reflect the light to the fourth surface (S4). The fourth surface (S4) may be the lower surface of the prism (140). The fourth surface (S4) may be adjacent to the image sensor (150). Light reflected on the third surface (S3) may be reflected again on the fourth surface (S4). The light may be reflected on the fourth surface (S4) and reach the second surface (S2). The light reflected on the second surface (S2) may pass through the fourth surface (S4) again and enter the image sensor (150). The fourth surface (S4) may be arranged perpendicular to the first direction.The fourth surface (S4) may be arranged parallel to the third surface (S3). The light may be sequentially reflected on the first surface (S1), the third surface (S3), the fourth surface (S4), and the second surface (S2) and then incident on the image sensor (150). Consequently, the light may be reflected at least four times inside the prism (140) and then incident on the image sensor (150). In addition, in another embodiment, the light may be reflected two or more times on each of the third surface (S3) and the fourth surface (S4). The camera actuator (100) may reflect the light multiple times along a direction perpendicular to the optical axis through the first to fourth surfaces (S1, S2, S3, S4) of the prism (140). Accordingly, the size of the camera module can be reduced while the focal length of the lens can be increased, thereby increasing the magnification range of the camera module and improving optical performance.

[0098] The image sensor (150) can receive light. The image sensor (150) can be placed at the bottom of the prism (140). The light can be reflected by the second surface (S2) of the prism (140), pass through the fourth surface (S4), and then enter the image sensor (150). The image sensor (150) can be placed at a predetermined distance from the fourth surface (S4) of the prism (140) in a first direction. The image sensor (150) can be placed so as to overlap the prism (140) in the first direction. In addition, the image sensor (150) may not overlap the first lens assembly to the third lens assemblies (110, 120, 130) in the first direction.

[0099] The image sensor (150) can be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the first direction. Accordingly, the image sensor (150) can receive light incident in the first direction, which is the optical axis direction. Accordingly, the image sensor (150) can be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the height (thickness) direction of the camera module, thereby reducing the thickness of the camera module and achieving miniaturization.

[0100] The filter (160) can transmit light of a specific wavelength band. The filter (160) can be placed between the prism (140) and the image sensor (150). The filter (160) can be placed at the bottom of the fourth surface (S4) of the prism (140). Only light of a specific wavelength band can be input to the image sensor (150) through the filter (160) and sensed. For example, the filter (160) can be an IR filter that transmits light of an infrared wavelength band.

[0101] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a first state of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0102] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a camera module (10) according to an embodiment may include a camera actuator (100), a housing (200), a first folding part (210), and a second folding part (220).

[0103] The housing (200) can cover the camera actuator (100). The camera actuator (100) can be protected by the housing (200). The first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) can be disposed on the housing (200). The first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) can be disposed on one surface of the housing (200), and a part of the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) can be disposed inside the housing (200), and a part of the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) can be disposed outside the housing (200). The housing (200) can include an opening for disposing the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220). The camera actuator (100) may be arranged to overlap the first folding portion (210) and the second folding portion (220) within the housing (200). The camera actuator (100) may be arranged to overlap the first folding portion (210) and the second folding portion (220) in the first direction. Accordingly, light incident through the first folding portion (210) and the second folding portion (220) may be incident on the camera actuator (100).

[0104] The first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) may be arranged to overlap each other in the optical axis direction. The second folding part (220) may be arranged to surround the first folding part (210). The first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) may be formed in a cylindrical shape, and the first folding part (210) may be arranged inside the second folding part (220). The diameter of the second folding part (220) may be larger than the diameter of the first folding part (210). That is, the width of the second folding part (220) in the second direction may be larger than the width of the first folding part (210) in the second direction. The first folding part (210) may include an opening (211). Light can enter the interior of the camera module (10) through the opening (211) of the first folding part (210). The opening (211) can overlap with the lens assembly of the camera actuator (100) in the first direction. The first lens assembly to the third lens assembly (110, 120, 130) can be arranged to partially overlap with the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) in the second direction. Part of the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly (110, 120, 130) can be arranged inside the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) to overlap with the folding part in the second direction. The first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) may not overlap with the image sensor (150) in the first direction.

[0105] The first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) can move in a first direction. As the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) move in the first direction, the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly (110, 120, 130) can move in the first direction inside the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220). The maximum movement distance of the first folding part (210) in the first direction can be greater than the maximum movement distance of the second folding part (220) in the first direction. The first lens assembly (110) is arranged inside the first folding part (210), so that as the first folding part (210) moves in the first direction, the first lens assembly (110) can have the widest movement range. As the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) move in the first direction, the lens assembly can secure a range of movement while maintaining the thickness of the camera module (10), thereby expanding the magnification range of the camera module (10) and improving optical performance.

[0106] The camera module (10) may include a first state in which the first folding portion (210) is positioned at the lowest position. The first state may be a zoom-in state of the camera actuator. The first state may be a state in which the effective focal length (EFL) of the lens assembly of the camera actuator is at its smallest.

[0107] In the first state, the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) may be positioned at the lowest position based on the first direction. In this case, the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) may be in a state of being completely overlapped in the second direction. Accordingly, in the first state, the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly (110, 120, 130) may be positioned at the lowest position based on the first direction. In the first state, the distance between the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly (110, 120, 130) may be the shortest. In the first state, the width (b) of the camera module in the first direction may be the smallest.

[0108] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a second state of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a second state of a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0109] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the camera module (10) may include a second state in which the first folding portion (210) is positioned at the topmost position. The second state may be a zoom-out state of the camera actuator. The second state may be a state in which the effective focal length (EFL) of the lens assembly of the camera actuator is the largest.

[0110] In the second state, the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) may be positioned at the uppermost position based on the first direction. In this case, the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) may not partially overlap in the second direction. In the second state, the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly (110, 120, 130) may be positioned at the uppermost position based on the first direction. In the second state, the distance between the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly (110, 120, 130) may be the greatest. In the second state, the width (B) of the camera module in the first direction may be the greatest.

[0111] The positions of the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly (110, 120, 130) of the camera actuator (100) can be continuously changed between a first state and a second state. As the positions of the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly (110, 120, 130) change between the first state and the second state, the effective focal length can change. As the positions of the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly (110, 120, 130) move from the first state to the second state, the effective focal length can increase. In addition, the positions of the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) of the camera module (10) can be continuously changed between the first state and the second state. As the positions of the first folding part (210) and the second folding part (220) change between the first state and the second state, the movable range of the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly (110, 120, 130) may change.

[0112] In the first state, the width (b) in the first direction from the lower surface of the housing (200) of the camera module (10) to the upper surface of the second folding portion (220) may be greater than the width (a) in the first direction of the housing (200). Accordingly, in the first state, the first folding portion (210) and the second folding portion (220) may protrude a certain width (ba) from the upper surface of the housing (200). In this case, the maximum separation distance in the first direction from the upper surface of the first lens assembly (110) to the lower surface of the image sensor (150) may be b.

[0113] When changing from the first state to the second state, the maximum movement distance (A) of the second folding part (220) in the first direction may be equal to the width (a) of the housing (200) in the first direction. In addition, when changing from the first state to the second state, the maximum movement distance of the first folding part (210) in the first direction may be equal to the width (b) in the first direction from the lower surface of the housing (200) to the upper surface of the second folding part (220) in the first state. Consequently, the width (B) in the first direction from the lower surface of the housing (200) of the camera module (10) to the upper surface of the first folding part (210) in the second state may be twice the width (b) in the first direction from the lower surface of the housing (200) to the upper surface of the first folding part (210) in the first state.

[0114] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, and FIG. 7 is a cross-section taken along line AA' in FIG. 5.

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, a camera module (1) according to an embodiment may be composed of a cover (CV), an OIS actuator (300), a camera actuator (1000), and a circuit board (400).

[0116] The cover (CV) can cover the OIS actuator (300) and / or the camera actuator (1000). The cover (CV) can improve the bonding force between the OIS actuator (300) and the camera actuator (1000).

[0117] Furthermore, the cover (CV) may be made of a material that blocks electromagnetic waves. Accordingly, the OIS actuator (300) and the camera actuator (1000) within the cover (CV) can be easily protected.

[0118] In an embodiment, the OIS actuator (300) can change the path of light. In an embodiment, the OIS actuator (300) can change the path of light vertically through an internal optical member (e.g., a mirror or a prism). By this configuration, even if the thickness of the mobile terminal is reduced, a lens configuration larger than the thickness of the mobile terminal can be placed within the mobile terminal through the change of the path of light, thereby performing magnification, auto-focusing (AF), and OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) functions.

[0119] The OIS actuator (300) can change the optical path from the second direction to the third direction.

[0120] Additionally, the OIS actuator (300) may include a lens arranged in a predetermined barrel (not shown). For example, the lens may include a fixed focal length lens. Such a fixed focal length lens may also be referred to as a “single focal length lens” or “single lens.”

[0121] The camera actuator (1000) may be placed behind the OIS actuator (300). The camera actuator (1000) may be coupled with the OIS actuator (300). The coupling between the two may be achieved in various ways.

[0122] Additionally, the camera actuator (1000) may be a zoom actuator or an auto focus (AF) actuator. For example, the camera actuator (1000) may support one or more lenses and move the lenses according to a control signal from a predetermined control unit to perform an auto focus function or a zoom function.

[0123] The circuit board (400) may be placed at the rear end of the camera actuator (1000). The circuit board (400) may be electrically connected to the camera actuator (1000) and the OIS actuator (300). In addition, there may be a plurality of circuit boards (400).

[0124] This circuit board (400) is connected to the housing of the camera actuator (1000), and an image sensor may be provided. Furthermore, a base portion including a filter may be mounted on the circuit board (400).

[0125] The camera module according to the embodiment may be comprised of a single or multiple camera modules. For example, the multiple camera modules may include a first camera module and a second camera module. Furthermore, as described above, the camera module may be used interchangeably with terms such as "camera device," "camera device," "imaging device," "imaging module," and "imaging device."

[0126] And the first camera module may include a single or multiple actuators. For example, the first camera module may include an OIS actuator (300) and a camera actuator (1000).

[0127] And the second camera module may be placed in a predetermined housing (not shown) and may include an actuator (not shown) capable of driving a lens unit. The actuator may be a voice coil motor, a micro actuator, a silicon actuator, etc., and may be applied in various ways such as an electrostatic method, a thermal method, a bimorph method, an electrostatic force method, etc., but is not limited thereto. In addition, the camera actuator in this specification may be referred to as an actuator, etc. In addition, a camera module composed of a plurality of camera modules may be mounted in various electronic devices such as a mobile terminal.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 7, a camera module according to an embodiment may include an OIS actuator (300) having an OIS function and a camera actuator (1000) having a zooming function and an AF function.

[0129] Light can be incident into the camera module through an aperture area located on the upper surface of the OIS actuator (300). That is, the light is incident into the interior of the OIS actuator (300) along an optical axis direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) and the light path can be changed to a vertical direction (e.g., Z-axis direction) through an optical member. Then, the light can pass through the camera actuator (1000) and be incident on an image sensor located at one end of the camera actuator (1000) (PATH).

[0130] In this specification, the bottom means one side in the first direction. And the first direction is the X-axis direction in the drawing and can be used interchangeably with the second-axis direction, etc. The second direction is the Y-axis direction in the drawing and can be used interchangeably with the first-axis direction, etc. The second direction is a direction perpendicular to the first direction. In addition, the third direction is the Z-axis direction in the drawing and can be used interchangeably with the third-axis direction, etc. It is a direction perpendicular to both the first direction and the second direction. Here, the third direction (Z-axis direction) corresponds to the direction of the optical axis, and the first direction (X-axis direction) and the second direction (Y-axis direction) are directions perpendicular to the optical axis. In addition, in the description of the camera actuator (1000) below, the optical axis direction corresponds to the optical path and is the third direction (Z-axis direction), and the following description will be made based on this.

[0131] And by this configuration, the camera module according to the embodiment can improve the spatial limitations of the OIS actuator and the camera actuator by changing the light path. That is, the camera module according to the embodiment can expand the light path while minimizing the thickness of the camera module in response to the change in the light path. Furthermore, it should be understood that the camera actuator can also provide a high range of magnification by controlling the focus, etc. in the expanded light path.

[0132] In addition, the camera module according to the embodiment can implement OIS by controlling the optical path through the OIS actuator, thereby minimizing the occurrence of decent or tilt phenomena and producing the best optical characteristics.

[0133] Furthermore, the camera actuator (1000) may include an optical system and a lens driving unit. For example, the camera actuator (1000) may include at least one of a first lens assembly, a second lens assembly, a third lens assembly, and a guide pin.

[0134] Additionally, the camera actuator (1000) is equipped with a coil and a magnet to perform a high-magnification zooming function.

[0135] For example, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly may be moving lenses that move via coils, magnets, and guide pins, and the third lens assembly (not shown) may be a fixed lens, but is not limited thereto. For example, the third lens assembly may function as a focal point that focuses light at a specific location, and the second lens assembly may function as a variator that refocuses the image focused by the third lens assembly, which is a focal point, at another location. Meanwhile, in the second lens assembly, the distance to the subject or the image distance may change significantly, resulting in a large change in magnification, and the second lens assembly, which is a variator, may play an important role in the change in the focal length or magnification of the optical system. Meanwhile, the image point focused by the second lens assembly, which is a variator, may have a slight difference depending on the location. Accordingly, the first lens assembly may function to compensate for the position of the image focused by the variator. For example, the first lens assembly may function as a compensator, accurately focusing the image formed by the second lens assembly onto the actual image sensor location. For example, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly may be driven by electromagnetic force resulting from the interaction of a coil and a magnet.

[0136] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 8, a camera actuator (1000) according to an embodiment may include a first actuator (1100) and a second actuator (1200). The first actuator (1100) may include a first lens assembly. The first actuator (1100) may be driven to move the first lens assembly in the optical axis direction. The second actuator (1200) may include a second lens assembly. The second actuator (1200) may be driven to move the second lens assembly in the optical axis direction. The first actuator (1100) and the second actuator (1200) may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction. The first lens assembly and the second lens assembly can be arranged between the first actuator (1100) and the second actuator (1200) and can overlap each other in the optical axis direction.

[0138] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a first actuator of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a first actuator of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, a first actuator (1100) of a camera actuator may include a first carrier (1110), a first magnet (M1), a second magnet (M2), a first coil (C1), a second coil (C2), a first base (1120), a first rail assembly (1130), a second rail assembly (1140), a first coil yoke (1150), a second coil yoke (1160), a first ball guide (BG1), a second ball guide (BG2), first to fourth balls (b1, b2, b3, b4), a first substrate (1170), a first case (1180), and a first lens assembly (1190).

[0140] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a first carrier and a magnet according to an embodiment, and Fig. 12 is a front view of the first carrier according to an embodiment.

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 12, a camera actuator according to an embodiment may include a first carrier (1110), a first magnet (M1), and a second magnet (M2).

[0142] The first carrier (1110) can support the first lens assembly (1190). The first carrier (1110) can fix the first lens assembly (1190) and move it in the optical axis direction. The first carrier (1110) can move in the optical axis direction together with the first lens assembly (1190). In addition, the first carrier (1110) can fix the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2). The first carrier (1110) can move in the optical axis direction by an electromagnetic force acting on the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2). The first carrier (1110) can be supported by first to fourth balls (b1, b2, b3, b4) arranged in the first direction. The first carrier (1110) is supported by the first to fourth balls (b1, b2, b3, b4) and can move in the optical axis direction.

[0143] The first carrier (1110) may include a first fixing groove (1110a). A protrusion of the first lens assembly (1190) may be positioned in the first fixing groove (1110a) to fix the first lens assembly (1190). The first fixing groove (1110a) may extend in the optical axis direction. The first fixing groove (1110a) may be located on a side surface of the first carrier (1110).

[0144] The first carrier (1110) may include a first magnet groove (1110b) and a second magnet groove (1110c). A first magnet (M1) may be arranged in the first magnet groove (1110b), and a second magnet (M2) may be arranged in the second magnet groove (1110c). The first magnet groove (1110b) and the second magnet groove (1110c) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The first magnet groove (1110b) may be located on the upper surface (first surface) of the first carrier (1110). The second magnet groove (1110c) may be located on the lower surface (second surface) of the first carrier (1110).

[0145] The first carrier (1110) may include a first rail (R1) and a second rail (R2). The first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2) may be rails on which balls move. Balls may be placed on the first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2) so that the first carrier (1110) may be supported by the balls. The balls may move along the first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2), so that the first carrier (1110) may move in the optical axis direction. The first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2) may be placed spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2) may be placed along the optical axis direction. The first rail (R1) may be disposed between the first lens assembly (1900) and the first magnet (M1), and the second rail (R2) may be disposed between the first lens assembly (1900) and the second magnet (M2). The first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2) may include a plurality of inclined surfaces. The first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2) may include two inclined surfaces. A ball may contact the inclined surfaces of the first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2). The first rail (R1) may be disposed adjacent to the first rail assembly (1130). The second rail (R2) may be disposed adjacent to the second rail assembly (1140).

[0146] The first carrier (1110) may include a first inclined surface (1110d) and a second inclined surface (1110e). The first inclined surface (1110d) may be arranged between the first rail (R1) and the first magnet groove (1110b). The second inclined surface (1110e) may be arranged between the second rail (R2) and the second magnet groove (1110c). Accordingly, a distance between the first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2) in the first direction may be greater than a distance between the first magnet groove (1110b) and the second magnet groove (1110c) in the first direction. By securing a distance between the first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2), the first carrier (1110) may be stably supported by the ball. In addition, the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) are arranged adjacently to each other so that the separation distance between the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) can be reduced, thereby reducing the thickness of the camera actuator.

[0147] A first magnet (M1) and a second magnet (M2) can move a first carrier (1110) by an electromagnetic force with a coil. The first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) can be arranged on the first carrier (1110). The first magnet (M1) can be arranged in a first magnet groove (1110b) of the first carrier (1110). The second magnet (M2) can be arranged in a second magnet groove (1110c) of the first carrier (1110). The first magnet (M1) can be arranged adjacent to the first coil (C1). The first magnet (M1) can receive an electromagnetic force by interaction with the first coil (C1). The second magnet (M2) can be arranged adjacent to the second coil (C2). The second magnet (M2) can receive an electromagnetic force by interaction with the second coil (C2). The first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) can be arranged to be spaced apart from the lens assembly (1190) in the second direction. In addition, the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) can be arranged to be spaced apart from the first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2) in the second direction. The camera actuator according to the embodiment can improve the driving force of the actuator by including two magnets to drive one lens assembly with the electromagnetic force of the two magnets.

[0148] The first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) can be spaced apart in a first direction. The first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) can be arranged in parallel while being spaced apart in the first direction. The first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) can be arranged adjacent to the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) while being spaced apart in the first direction, respectively. Since the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) are spaced apart in the first direction, the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) can be arranged perpendicular to the first direction. In addition, the thickness of the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) in the first direction can be smaller than the width in the optical axis direction or the width in the second direction. Accordingly, the thickness of the camera actuator can be reduced and the camera actuator can be miniaturized.

[0149] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a first base and a first substrate according to an embodiment.

[0150] Referring to FIGS. 9, 10 and 13, a camera actuator according to an embodiment may include a first base (1120) and a first substrate (1170).

[0151] The first base (1120) can support the first rail assembly (1130), the second rail assembly (1140), the first coil (C1), the second coil (C2), and the first substrate (1170).

[0152] A first support portion (1131) of a first rail assembly (1130) and a second support portion (1141) of a second rail assembly (1140) may be arranged on a first base (1120). Accordingly, the first base (1120) may fix the first rail assembly (1130) and the second rail assembly (1140). The first support portion (1131) and the second support portion (1141) may be arranged on the upper surface and the lower surface of the first base (1120), respectively.

[0153] A first substrate (1170) may be placed on a side of the first base (1120). The first substrate (1170) may be electrically connected to the first base (1120). In addition, a plurality of sensors may be placed on the first substrate (1170). The first substrate (1170) may include a plurality of bends on which the sensors are placed. The plurality of bends may be bent from the first substrate (1170) and placed on the upper and lower surfaces of the first base (1120).

[0154] The first base (1120) can support the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2). The first base (1120) can support the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) by contacting the first coil yoke (1150) and the second coil yoke (1160). The first base (1120) can include a first base groove (1121) for fixing the first coil yoke (1150). Both ends of the first coil yoke (1150) can be arranged in the first base groove (1121) and fixed to the first base (1120). In addition, the first base (1120) can include a second base groove (1122) for fixing the second coil yoke (1160). Both ends of the second coil yoke (1160) can be placed in the second base groove (1122) and fixed to the first base (1120).

[0155] FIG. 14 is a perspective view and a top view of a first coil and a second coil according to an embodiment, FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a first base and a first coil and a second coil combined according to an embodiment, and FIG. 16 is a side view of a first base and a first coil and a second coil combined according to an embodiment.

[0156] Referring to FIGS. 9, 10, 14 to 16, a camera actuator according to an embodiment may include a first coil (C1), a second coil (C2), a first coil yoke (1150), and a second coil yoke (1160).

[0157] The first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) may be fixed to the first base (1120). The first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) may be fixed to the first base (1120) by a first coil yoke (1150) and a second coil yoke (1160). The first coil yoke (1150) may be placed in the first coil groove (h1) of the first coil (C1). In addition, the second coil yoke (1160) may be placed in the second coil groove (h2) of the second coil (C2). The first coil groove (h1) and the second coil groove (h2) may pass through the centers of the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2), respectively. The first coil groove (h1) can penetrate the first coil (C1) in the optical axis direction, and the second coil groove (h2) can penetrate the second coil (C2) in the optical axis direction. The widths of the first coil groove (h1) and the second coil groove (h2) in the second direction can be greater than the widths of the first coil groove (h1) and the second coil groove (h2) in the first direction. The first coil yoke (1150) and the second coil yoke (1160) can be arranged in the first coil groove (h1) and the second coil groove (h2) to penetrate the insides of the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2). In addition, the widths of the first coil yoke (1150) and the second coil yoke (1160) in the optical axis direction can be greater than the widths of the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) in the optical axis direction. Accordingly, both ends of the first coil yoke (1150) and the second coil yoke (1160) are placed in the first base groove (1121) and the second base groove (1122), so that the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) can be fixed to the first base (1120).

[0158] The first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) can be spaced apart in a first direction. The first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) can be spaced apart in the first direction and arranged adjacent to the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M1), respectively. The first coil (C1) can be arranged adjacent to the first magnet (M1) and can apply an electromagnetic force to the first magnet (M1). In addition, the second coil (C2) can be arranged adjacent to the second magnet (M2) and can apply an electromagnetic force to the second magnet (M2).

[0159] In addition, the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) may be arranged to overlap partially in the first direction. The first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) may overlap partially in the first direction and not partially overlap. Therefore, the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) may include an area where they overlap each other in the first direction and an area where they do not overlap each other. The width in the direction of the optical axis of the area where the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) overlap each other in the first direction may be smaller than the width in the direction of the optical axis of the area where they do not overlap each other. Accordingly, the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) may apply a uniform electromagnetic force over a wide range even when the first carrier and the magnet move in the direction of the optical axis.

[0160] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a first rail assembly and a second rail assembly according to an embodiment, FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a first ball guide and a second ball guide according to an embodiment, and FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a first base, first and second rail assemblies, and first and second ball guides combined according to an embodiment.

[0161] Referring to FIGS. 9, 10, and 17 to 19, a camera actuator according to an embodiment may include a first rail assembly (1130) and a second rail assembly (1140). The first rail assembly (1130) and the second rail assembly (1140) may function as rails on which a ball moves. The first rail assembly (1130) and the second rail assembly (1140) may be coupled to a first base (1120). The first rail assembly (1130) and the second rail assembly (1140) may be fixed to the first base (1120) and may not move. The first rail assembly (1130) and the second rail assembly (1140) may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction. The first rail assembly (1130) and the second rail assembly (1140) may be arranged to overlap each other in the first direction.

[0162] The first rail assembly (1130) may include a third rail (R3), and the second rail assembly (1140) may include a fourth rail (R4). The third rail (R3) may be a rail along which the first ball and the second ball move. The third rail (R3) may be arranged adjacent to the first rail to face the first rail. The fourth rail (R4) may be a rail along which the third ball and the fourth ball move. The fourth rail (R4) may be arranged adjacent to the second rail to face the second rail. The third rail (R3) and the fourth rail (R4) may be arranged to face each other. The third rail (R3) and the fourth rail (R4) may include a plurality of surfaces that contact the balls. The third rail (R3) and the fourth rail (R4) may include a plurality of inclined surfaces. The third rail (R3) and the fourth rail (R4) may be arranged along the optical axis direction.

[0163] The first rail assembly (1130) may include a first support portion (1131), and the second rail assembly (1140) may include a second support portion (1141). The first support portion (1131) may be a portion that secures the first rail assembly (1130) to the first base (1120). The first support portion (1131) may protrude in a second direction from both ends of the first rail assembly (1130). The first support portion (1131) may be secured to the upper surface of the first base (1120). The second support portion (1141) may be a portion that secures the second rail assembly (1140) to the first base (1120). The second support portion (1141) may protrude in the second direction from both ends of the second rail assembly (1140). The second support member (1141) can be fixed to the upper surface of the first base (1120).

[0164] A camera actuator according to an embodiment may include a first ball guide (BG1), a second ball guide (BG2), and first to fourth balls (b1, b2, b3, b4). The first ball guide (BG1) and the second ball guide (BG2) may be means for fixing a plurality of balls. The first ball guide (BG1) and the second ball guide (BG2) may include a plurality of holes into which balls are coupled. The first ball (b1) and the second ball (b2) are coupled to the first ball guide (BG1) and can move on a rail. The first ball (b1) and the second ball (b2) may be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the direction of the optical axis. The third ball (b3) and the fourth ball (b4) are coupled to the second ball guide (BG2) and can move on a rail. The third ball (b3) and the fourth ball (b4) may be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the direction of the optical axis. The first ball guide (BG1) and the second ball guide (BG2) can be spaced apart in the first direction. The first ball guide (BG1) can be arranged between the first rail and the third rail. The second ball guide (BG2) can be arranged between the second rail and the fourth rail.

[0165] Figure 20 is a cross-section taken along line BB' in Figure 9.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 20, the first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2) may be arranged to face in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. The third rail (R3) and the fourth rail (R4) may be arranged spaced apart from the first rail (R1) and the second rail (R2), respectively, in the first direction. The first rail (R1) and the third rail (R3) may be arranged to overlap in the first direction. The second rail (R2) and the fourth rail (R4) may be arranged to overlap in the first direction.

[0167] Additionally, the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction from the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2), respectively. The camera actuator according to the embodiment may include the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) to enhance the driving force of the lens assembly.

[0168] The widths in the second direction of the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) may be greater than the widths in the first direction of the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2). By having the widths in the second direction of the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) greater, the driving force can be improved without increasing the thickness of the camera actuator. In addition, the widths in the second direction of the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) may be greater than the widths in the first direction of the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2). By having the widths in the second direction of the first magnet (M1) and the second magnet (M2) greater, the driving force can be improved without increasing the thickness of the camera actuator.

[0169] Fig. 21 is a drawing showing the position of the first carrier according to the driving of the camera actuator according to the embodiment.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 21, the first carrier (1110) of the camera actuator can move in the optical axis direction. As the first carrier (1110) moves in the optical axis direction, the lens assembly can move in the optical axis direction. FIG. 17a shows a case where the first carrier (1110) is located at the frontmost end of the camera actuator. FIG. 7b shows a case where the first carrier (1110) is located at the middle end of the camera actuator. FIG. 7c shows a case where the first carrier (1110) is located at the rearmost end of the camera actuator. When the first carrier (1110) is located at the frontmost end, the first carrier (1110) can partially overlap the second coil (C2) in the first direction. When the first carrier (1110) is positioned at the rearmost end, the first carrier (1110) may partially overlap the first coil (C1) in the first direction. Therefore, even if the first carrier (1110) moves in the optical axis direction, the first carrier (1110) may always overlap the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2). Accordingly, the electromagnetic force acting on the first carrier (1110) can be increased and maintained constant. In addition, the driving force of the camera actuator can be increased and the driving stability can be improved.

[0171] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of a second actuator of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and Fig. 23 is a cross-section viewed along CC' in Fig. 22.

[0172] Referring to FIGS. 8, 22 and 23, the camera actuator may include a first lens assembly (1190) and a second lens assembly (1290) overlapping in the optical axis direction, a second carrier (1210) coupled to the second lens assembly (1290), a third magnet (M3) and a fourth magnet (M4) coupled to the second carrier (1210) and spaced apart in the first direction, a third coil (C3) adjacent to the third magnet (M3) and a fourth coil (C4) adjacent to the fourth magnet (M4).

[0173] The second lens assembly, the second carrier, the third magnet, the fourth magnet, the third coil, and the fourth coil of the second actuator may correspond to the first lens assembly, the first carrier, the first magnet, the second magnet, the first coil, and the second coil of the first actuator, respectively.

[0174] In the following description of the second actuator, any content that overlaps with that of the first actuator is omitted.

[0175] Fig. 24 is a top view of the first to fourth coils according to the embodiment, and Fig. 25 is a side view of the first to fourth coils according to the embodiment.

[0176] Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, the third coil (C3) does not overlap with the second coil (C2) in the first direction and the second direction, and the third coil (C3) may include a region overlapping with the first coil (C1) in the second direction and a region not overlapping with the second direction. In addition, the fourth coil (C4) does not overlap with the first coil (C1) in the first direction and the second direction, and the fourth coil (C4) may include a region overlapping with the second coil (C2) in the second direction and a region not overlapping with the second direction. The region of the third coil (C3) overlapping with the first coil (C1) in the second direction may be the same as the region of the third coil (C3) overlapping with the fourth coil (C4) in the first direction.

[0177] Fig. 26 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0178] Referring to FIG. 26, the mobile terminal of the embodiment may include a camera module (1), a flash module (3), and an autofocus device (2) provided on the rear.

[0179] The camera module (1) may include an image capturing function and an autofocus function. For example, the camera module (1) may include an autofocus function using an image.

[0180] The camera module (1) processes still image or video image frames obtained by the image sensor in shooting mode or video call mode.

[0181] The processed image frame can be displayed on a predetermined display unit and stored in memory. A camera (not shown) may also be placed on the front of the mobile terminal body.

[0182] For example, the camera module (1) may include a first camera module and a second camera module, and the first camera module may be capable of implementing OIS together with AF or zoom functions. In addition, the second camera module may be capable of implementing AF, zoom, and OIS functions. In this case, since the first camera module includes both the OIS actuator and the camera actuator described above, miniaturization of the camera module can be easily achieved through changing the optical path.

[0183] The flash module (3) may include a light-emitting element that emits light internally. The flash module (3) may be operated by the camera operation of the mobile terminal or by the user's control.

[0184] The autofocus device (2) may include one of the packages of surface-emitting laser elements as a light-emitting unit.

[0185] The autofocus device (2) may include an autofocus function using a laser. The autofocus device (2) may be mainly used in conditions where the autofocus function using the image of the camera module (1) is degraded, such as at a close range of 10 m or less or in a dark environment.

[0186] The autofocus device (2) may include a light emitting unit including a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) semiconductor element and a light receiving unit that converts light energy into electrical energy, such as a photodiode.

[0187] Fig. 27 is a perspective view of a vehicle to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0188] For example, FIG. 27 is an exterior view of a vehicle equipped with a vehicle driving assistance device to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 27, the vehicle (700) of the embodiment may be equipped with wheels (13FL, 13FR) that rotate by a power source and a predetermined sensor. The sensor may be a camera sensor (3000), but is not limited thereto.

[0190] The camera sensor (3000) may be a camera sensor to which a camera module according to an embodiment is applied. The vehicle (700) of the embodiment can obtain image information through the camera sensor (3000) that captures a forward image or a surrounding image, and can use the image information to determine a lane non-identification situation and create a virtual lane when the lane is not identified.

[0191] For example, a camera sensor (3000) can capture a front image of a vehicle (700) and a processor (not shown) can analyze an object included in the front image to obtain image information.

[0192] For example, if objects such as a center divider, curb, or street tree, which correspond to a lane, adjacent vehicle, traffic obstruction, or indirect road marking, are captured in an image captured by a camera sensor (3000), the processor can detect these objects and include them in the image information. At this time, the processor can obtain distance information from the object detected by the camera sensor (3000) to further supplement the image information.

[0193] The image information may be information about an object captured in the image. The camera sensor (3000) may include an image sensor and an image processing module.

[0194] The camera sensor (3000) can process still images or moving images obtained by an image sensor (e.g., CMOS or CCD).

[0195] The image processing module can process still images or videos acquired through an image sensor, extract necessary information, and transmit the extracted information to the processor.

[0196] At this time, the camera sensor (3000) may include a stereo camera to improve the measurement accuracy of the object and to secure more information such as the distance between the vehicle (700) and the object, but is not limited thereto.

[0197] Although the above description focuses on examples, these are merely examples and do not limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention. For example, each component specifically shown in the examples can be modified and implemented. In addition, differences related to such modifications and applications should be construed as being included within the scope of the present invention defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A first lens assembly to a third lens assembly arranged spaced apart in a first direction in which light is incident; a prism disposed at the bottom of the third lens assembly; and Including an image sensor arranged at the bottom of the above prism, The first lens assembly to the third lens assembly do not overlap with the image sensor in the first direction, The above prism is a camera actuator extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

2. In paragraph 1, A camera actuator in which the above light is incident on the image sensor in the first direction.

3. In paragraph 1, A camera actuator, wherein the prism includes a first surface that reflects light passing through the third lens assembly and a second surface that reflects the light to the image sensor.

4. In paragraph 3, A camera actuator in which the prism includes a third surface on which light passing through the third lens assembly is incident and a fourth surface parallel to the third surface.

5. In paragraph 4, The third and fourth surfaces are camera actuators that allow light reflected by the first surface to be totally reflected inside the prism and reach the second surface.

6. A camera actuator according to any one of claims 1 to 5; Housing; and A camera module comprising a first folding part and a second folding part arranged on the housing.

7. In paragraph 6, A camera module in which the camera actuator is disposed within the housing and overlaps the first folding portion and the second folding portion in the first direction.

8. In paragraph 7, The second folding part is arranged to surround the first folding part, A camera module wherein the diameter of the first folding part is smaller than the diameter of the second folding part.

9. In paragraph 8, The first folding part and the second folding part move in the first direction, A camera module in which the first lens assembly to the third lens assembly move in the first direction within the first folding part and the second folding part.

10. In paragraph 9, The first folding portion includes an opening, A camera module in which the light is incident on the first lens assembly in the first direction through the opening.

Images