Lens driving device, camera device, and optical instrument

Abstract

The present embodiment relates to a lens driving device comprising: a base; a carrier disposed in the base; a magnet and a coil for moving the carrier with respect to the base; and a ball disposed between the base and the carrier, wherein the carrier includes an elastic body, and the ball is disposed on the elastic body of the carrier.

Description

Lens actuators, camera devices and optical instruments

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

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

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

[0004] However, in conventional lens actuators, there is a problem in that a ball with relatively high hardness hits a ball rail with relatively low hardness due to external impact, etc., causing a phenomenon of imprinting on the ball rail.

[0005] (Patent Document 1) KR 10-2015-0118005 A

[0006] The present embodiment aims to provide a lens driving device that prevents damage to a ball rail caused by a ball.

[0007] A lens driving device according to the present embodiment comprises: a base; a carrier disposed within the base; a magnet and a coil for moving the carrier relative to the base; and a ball disposed between the base and the carrier, wherein the carrier includes an elastic body, and the ball can be disposed in the elastic body of the carrier.

[0008] The above elastic body may include at least one of rubber and elastomer.

[0009] The carrier comprises a body part which is an injection molded product and a metal plate at least partially disposed within the body part, and the elastic body can be combined with the plate.

[0010] The carrier includes a hole formed in the body portion in the optical axis direction, the elastic body includes a first surface on which the ball is arranged and a second surface opposite the first surface, and the second surface of the elastic body is arranged in the hole and can be spaced apart from the body portion.

[0011] The ball includes a first ball and a second ball that overlap each other in the optical axis direction, the elastic body includes a first rail portion on which the first ball is arranged, a second rail portion on which the second ball is arranged, and a connecting portion connecting the first rail portion and the second rail portion, the plate includes a first surface facing the ball and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first rail portion and the second rail portion of the elastic body protrude from the first surface of the plate, and the connecting portion of the elastic body can be arranged on the second surface of the plate.

[0012] A third ball and a fourth ball are disposed between the first ball and the second ball and have a smaller diameter than the first ball and the second ball, and the third ball and the fourth ball can be spaced apart from the elastic body.

[0013] The first rail portion may include a first contact surface and a second contact surface that contact the first ball, and the first surface of the plate may include a surface parallel to each of the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

[0014] The above elastic body includes a first elastic body and a second elastic body spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, the plate includes a first connecting portion in which the first elastic body is arranged, a second connecting portion in which the second elastic body is arranged, and a connecting portion connecting the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, and the magnet can be arranged in the connecting portion of the plate.

[0015] The lens actuator includes a yoke disposed between the magnet and the carrier, the elastic body includes a first elastic body and a second elastic body spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, the plate includes a first connecting portion in which the first elastic body is disposed, a second connecting portion in which the second elastic body is disposed, and a connecting portion connecting the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, the connecting portion being disposed perpendicular to the optical axis, and the yoke can be spaced apart from the plate.

[0016] The elastic body includes a groove having a curvature corresponding to the curvature of the ball, and the ball can be placed in the groove of the elastic body.

[0017] The base may include an elastic body, and the ball may be disposed between the elastic body of the carrier and the elastic body of the base.

[0018] The base includes a body part that is an injection molded product and a metal plate at least partly disposed within the body part, and the elastic body of the base can be combined with the plate of the base.

[0019] A lens driving device according to the present embodiment comprises: a base; a carrier disposed within the base; a magnet and a coil for moving the carrier relative to the base; and a ball disposed between the base and the carrier, wherein the base includes an elastic body, and the ball can be disposed in the elastic body of the base.

[0020] A camera device according to the present embodiment may include a printed circuit board; an image sensor disposed on the printed circuit board; the lens driving device disposed on the printed circuit board; and a lens coupled to the lens driving device.

[0021] An optical device according to the present embodiment may include a main body; the camera device disposed in the main body; and a display disposed in the main body and outputting at least one of an image and an image captured by the camera device.

[0022] Through this embodiment, the phenomenon of the ball rail being damaged by the ball pressing or hitting the ball rail can be prevented.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view illustrating a lens driving device and a lens module according to the present embodiment.

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

[0025] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view and a partially enlarged view taken from above, taken perpendicular to the optical axis of Figure 1.

[0026] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of Figure 1.

[0027] Figure 5 is a perspective view of Figure 1 with the cover omitted.

[0028] Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing the base and related components of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0029] Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing a carrier and related configuration of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0030] Figure 8 is a perspective view of Figure 7 with the ball omitted.

[0031] Figure 9 is a front view of Figure 8.

[0032] Figure 10 (a) is a perspective view showing the plate, elastic body, and ball of the present embodiment, and (b) is a perspective view of a modified example.

[0033] Fig. 11 is a partial perspective view showing a carrier and related components of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0034] Fig. 12 is a plan view of a carrier of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0035] Fig. 13 (a) is a perspective view showing the plate, elastic body, and ball of the lens driving device according to the first modified example, and (b) is a perspective view viewed from a different direction from (a).

[0036] Fig. 14 is a plan view and a partially enlarged view showing the plate, elastic body, and ball of the lens driving device according to the first modified example.

[0037] Fig. 15 is a partial perspective view showing a carrier and related configuration of a lens driving device according to a second modified example.

[0038] Fig. 16 is a perspective view showing the related components such as the plate, elastic body, ball, and driving unit of the lens driving device according to the second modified example.

[0039] Figure 17 is a partial perspective view and a partially enlarged view of a modified example in which the plate shape is partially modified in the second modified example.

[0040] Fig. 18 is a perspective view showing a carrier and related configuration of a lens driving device according to a third modified example.

[0041] Figure 19 is a front view of Figure 18 with the ball omitted.

[0042] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view showing the shape of the plate and elastic body in the third modified example.

[0043] Fig. 21 is a partial perspective view of a lens driving device according to the fourth variation.

[0044] Fig. 22 is a perspective view showing the ball and related configuration of the lens driving device according to the fourth modified example.

[0045] Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing the base and related configuration of a lens driving device according to the fourth modified example.

[0046] Fig. 24 is a plan view showing the ball and related configuration of the lens driving device according to the fourth modified example.

[0047] Fig. 25 is an exploded perspective view of a camera device according to the present embodiment.

[0048] Fig. 26 is a perspective view of an optical device according to the present embodiment.

[0049] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] Additionally, in describing components of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and are not intended to limit the nature, order, or sequence of the components.

[0055] And, when a component is described as being 'connected', 'coupled', or 'connected' to another component, it may include not only cases where the component is 'connected', 'coupled', or 'connected' directly to the other component, but also cases where the component is 'connected', 'coupled', or 'connected' by another component between the component and the other component.

[0056] Additionally, when described as being formed or arranged "above" or "below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where the two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or arranged between the two components. Furthermore, when expressed as "above" or "below," the meaning may include not only the upward direction but also the downward direction based on one component.

[0057] The 'optical axis direction' used below is defined as the optical axis direction of the lens and / or image sensor coupled to the lens driving device.

[0058] The 'vertical direction' used below may be a direction parallel to or the same direction as the optical axis direction. The vertical direction may correspond to the 'z-axis direction'. The 'horizontal direction' used below may be a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. That is, the horizontal direction may be a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. Therefore, the horizontal direction may include the 'x-axis direction' and the 'y-axis direction'.

[0059] The 'auto focus (AF) function' used below is defined as a function that automatically focuses on a subject by adjusting the distance from the image sensor by moving the lens in the optical axis direction according to the distance of the subject so that a clear image of the subject can be obtained on the image sensor. In addition, 'closed-loop auto focus (CLAF) control' is defined as a function that detects the distance between the image sensor and the lens and provides feedback control of the position of the lens in real time to improve the accuracy of focus adjustment.

[0060] Hereinafter, either the “x-axis direction” or the “y-axis direction” may be referred to as the “first direction” and the other may be referred to as the “second direction.”

[0061]

[0062] Below, the configuration of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment is described with reference to the drawings.

[0063] FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view illustrating a lens driving device and a lens module according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view and a partially enlarged view of FIG. 1 taken along line AA of FIG. 1 and viewed from above perpendicular to the optical axis. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of FIG. 1 with the cover omitted. FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a base and related components of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a carrier and related components of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of FIG. 7 with the ball omitted. FIG. 9 is a front view of FIG. 10 (a) is a perspective view illustrating a plate, an elastic body, and a ball of the present embodiment, and (b) is a perspective view of a modified example. FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view illustrating a carrier and related components of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment. Fig. 12 is a plan view of a carrier of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0064] The lens driving device (10) may include a fixed portion. The fixed portion may be a portion that is relatively fixed when the moving portion moves. The fixed portion may be a portion that is fixed when the autofocus is driven. The fixed portion may correspond to the image sensor (60) side, and the moving portion may correspond to the lens side.

[0065] The lens actuator (10) may include a base (110). The fixing part may include the base (110). The base (110) may accommodate a carrier (210) therein. The base (110) may be disposed on the outside of the carrier (210). The base (110) may be disposed under the carrier (210). The base (110) may be coupled to a cover (120). The base (110) may be disposed within the cover (120). The base (110) may be disposed under the cover (120). The base (110) may include a body (111). The body (111) may be formed as an injection molded product.

[0066] The base (110) may include a step portion. The step portion may be formed at the lower end of the outer surface of the base (110). The step portion may be formed by protruding the lower end of the outer surface of the base (110). A side plate (122) of the cover (120) may be placed on the step portion.

[0067] The base (110) may include a groove (112). The groove (112) may be a ball rail. A ball (400) may be placed in the groove (112). The groove (112) may be placed in the optical axis direction. The groove (112) may extend in the optical axis direction. The ball (400) may come into contact with the groove (112). The ball (400) may move along the groove (112).

[0068] The base (110) may include a stopper (113). The stopper (113) may be formed on the upper surface of the lower plate of the base (110). The stopper (113) may limit the downward movement of the carrier (210). The stopper (113) may come into contact with the carrier (210) when the carrier (210) moves downward. The stopper (113) may come into contact with the lower stopper (211c) of the carrier (210). The stopper (113) may include a protrusion.

[0069] The base (110) may include a groove (114). The groove (114) may be positioned adjacent to the ball (400). The groove (114) may be positioned below the ball (400). The groove (114) may accommodate grease that has flowed down from the grease applied to the ball (400). The groove (114) may be formed in a dam shape to accommodate the grease. The groove (114) may be a grease tank.

[0070] The lens actuator (10) may include a cover (120). The fixing member may include the cover (120). The cover (120) may be placed on the base (110). The cover (120) may be placed on the base (110). The cover (120) may be fixed to the base (110). The cover (120) may be coupled to the base (110). The cover (120) may be adhesively bonded to the base (110). The cover (120) may accommodate at least a portion of the base (110) therein. The cover (120) may be a shield can. The cover (120) may be formed of metal.

[0071] The cover (120) may include a top plate (121). The top plate (121) may include a hole through which light passes. The top plate (121) may include a hole formed at a position corresponding to a lens. The cover (120) may include a side plate (122). The side plate (122) may extend from the top plate (121). The side plate (122) may extend downward from an outer edge of the top plate (121). The side plate (122) may be formed in a shape bent from the top plate (121).

[0072] The side plate (122) of the cover (120) may include a plurality of side plates. The side plate (122) may include a first side plate and a second side plate positioned opposite each other, and a third side plate and a fourth side plate positioned opposite each other.

[0073] The lens actuator (10) may include a substrate (130). The fixing member may include the substrate (130). The substrate (130) may be placed on the base (110). The substrate (130) may be placed on the base (110). The substrate (130) may be fixed to the base (110). The substrate (130) may be coupled to the base (110). The substrate (130) may be adhered to the base (110). The substrate (130) may be placed on the yoke (500). The substrate (130) may be fixed to the yoke (500). The substrate (130) may be coupled to the yoke (500). The substrate (130) may be adhered to the yoke (500). The substrate (130) may be placed between the yoke (500) and the coil (320). The substrate (130) may be placed on the side plate (122) of the cover (120). The substrate (130) may be placed on the side plate (122) of the cover (120). The substrate (130) may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The substrate (130) may supply power to the coil (320). The substrate (130) may supply power to the sensor (330). The substrate (130) may be placed parallel to the optical axis.

[0074] The substrate (130) may include a terminal. The terminal may be arranged on the outer surface of the substrate (130). The terminal may be formed on the bottom of the substrate (130). The terminal may include a plurality of terminals. The terminal may be coupled to a terminal of the printed circuit board (50). The terminal may include a terminal electrically connected to the sensor (330). The terminal may include a terminal electrically connected to the coil (320).

[0075] The lens actuator (10) may include a yoke (140). The fixing member may include the yoke (140). The yoke (140) may be placed on the base (110). The yoke (140) may be placed on the substrate (130). The yoke (140) may be placed on the cover (120). The yoke (140) may be placed on the side plate (122) of the cover (120). The yoke (1400) can be placed between the substrate (130) and the side plate (122) of the cover (120). The yoke (140) can pressurize the ball (400) through an attractive force with the magnet (310). The yoke (140) can act as an attractive force with the magnet (310). The yoke (140) can be formed of metal. The yoke (140) can be placed at a position corresponding to the magnet (310). The yoke (140) can overlap the magnet (310) in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction.

[0076] The lens driving device (10) may include a moving part. The moving part may be a part that moves relative to the fixed part. The moving part may be moved by the driving part (300). The moving part may be arranged to be movable relative to the fixed part. The moving part may move relative to the fixed part during autofocus operation.

[0077] The lens actuator (10) may include a carrier (210). The moving part may include the carrier (210). The carrier (210) may be placed on the base (110). The carrier (210) may be placed on the base (110). The carrier (210) may be placed within the base (110). The carrier (210) may be movably placed on the base (110). The carrier (210) may move relative to the base (110). The carrier (210) may move in the optical axis direction. The carrier (210) may be coupled to a lens. The carrier (210) may move integrally with the lens.

[0078] The carrier (210) may include a body portion (211). The body portion (211) may be formed as an injection molded product.

[0079] The carrier (210) may include a hole (211a). The hole (211a) may be formed in the body portion (211) in the optical axis direction. The hole (211a) may penetrate the body portion (211) in the optical axis direction. A connecting portion (213c) of an elastic body (213) may be arranged in the hole (211a). A component such as a jig that supports a plate (212) and an elastic body (213) during the injection molding of the body portion (211) may be arranged in the hole (211a). That is, the hole (211a) may be a jig hole.

[0080] The carrier (210) may include an upper stopper (211b). The upper stopper (211b) may be formed on the upper surface of the carrier (210). The upper stopper (211b) may form the upper end of the carrier (210). The upper stopper (211b) may come into contact with the upper plate (121) of the cover (120) when the carrier (210) moves upward. That is, the upward movement of the carrier (210) may be restricted by the upper stopper (211b). The upper stopper (211b) may include a protrusion.

[0081] The carrier (210) may include a lower stopper (211c). The lower stopper (211c) may be formed on the lower surface of the carrier (210). The lower stopper (211c) may form the lower end of the carrier (210). The lower stopper (211c) may come into contact with the stopper (113) of the base (110) when the carrier (210) moves downward. That is, the downward movement of the carrier (210) may be restricted by the lower stopper (211c). The lower stopper (211c) may include a protrusion.

[0082] The lens actuator (10) may include a plate (212). The carrier (210) may include the plate (212). The plate (212) may be formed of metal. The plate (212) may be formed of a metal plate. At least a portion of the plate (212) may be disposed within the body (211). The plate (212) may be insert-molded into the body (211). The plate (212) may reinforce the strength of the carrier (210).

[0083] The plate (212) may include a first connecting portion (212-1). A first elastic body (213-1) may be arranged on the first connecting portion (212-1). The plate (212) may include a second connecting portion (212-2). A second elastic body (213-2) may be arranged on the second connecting portion (212-2). The plate (212) may include a connecting portion (212-3). The connecting portion (212-3) may connect the first connecting portion (212-1) and the second connecting portion (212-2). A magnet (310) may be arranged on the connecting portion (212-3) of the plate (212). The first connecting portion (212-1) and the second connecting portion (212-2) may have a flat plate shape that is parallel to each other. A bent shape can be formed between the first connecting portion (212-1) and the connecting portion (212-3) and between the second connecting portion (212-2) and the connecting portion (212-3).

[0084] The lens actuator (10) may include an elastic body (213). The carrier (210) may include an elastic body (213). The elastic body (213) may include at least one of rubber and an elastomer. The elastic body (213) may be combined with the plate (212).

[0085] The elastic body (213) may include a groove (214) in which a ball (400) is placed. The groove (213) may be a ball rail. The groove (213) may be a V-shaped groove. The groove (213) may be in contact with the ball (400) at two points.

[0086] The groove (214) may include multiple grooves. The groove (214) may include four grooves. Some of the four grooves may contact the ball (400) at two points, and the remaining some may contact the ball (400) at one point. Alternatively, all four grooves may contact the ball (400) at two points.

[0087] The elastic body (213) may include a first surface on which a ball (400) is arranged, and a second surface opposite the first surface. The second surface of the elastic body (213) may be arranged in the hole (211a). The second surface of the elastic body (213) may be spaced apart from the body portion (211).

[0088] The elastic body (213) may include a first rail portion (213a). A first ball (401) may be arranged on the first rail portion (213a). The elastic body (213) may include a second rail portion (213b). A second ball (402) may be arranged on the second rail portion (213b). The elastic body (213) may include a connecting portion (213c). The connecting portion (213c) may connect the first rail portion (213a) and the second rail portion (213b).

[0089] The plate (212) may include a first surface facing the ball (400) and a second surface opposite the first surface. The first rail portion (213a) and the second rail portion (213b) of the elastic body (213) may be arranged on the first surface of the plate (212). The first rail portion (213a) and the second rail portion (213b) of the elastic body (213) may protrude from the first surface of the plate (212). The connecting portion (213c) of the elastic body (213) may be arranged on the second surface of the plate (212). The connecting portion (213c) of the elastic body (213) may protrude from the second surface of the plate (212).

[0090] The connecting portion (213c) may be omitted in whole or in part, as in (b) of Fig. 10. That is, the first rail portion (213a) and the second rail portion (213b) may be connected to each other, or the first rail portion (213a) and the second rail portion (213b) may be separated from each other.

[0091] The elastic body (213) may include a first elastic body (213-1) and a second elastic body (213-2) that are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The first elastic body (213-1) and the second elastic body (213-2) may be arranged on opposite sides with respect to the magnet (310). Each of the first elastic body (213-1) and the second elastic body (213-2) may include a first rail portion (213a) and a second rail portion (213b).

[0092] In this embodiment, a ball (400) formed of a ceramic having relatively high hardness can come into contact with an elastic body (213) without directly coming into contact with the carrier (210), which is an injection-molded product. This can prevent the rail of the carrier (210) from being stamped or damaged by the ball (400).

[0093] The lens actuator (10) may include a driving unit (300). The driving unit (300) may move the moving unit relative to the fixed unit. The driving unit (300) may move the moving unit when power is applied. The driving unit (300) may include a magnet (310) and a coil (320). The driving unit (300) may move the moving unit through electromagnetic interaction. The magnet (310) and the coil (320) may move the carrier (210) relative to the base (110).

[0094] The lens driving device (10) may include a magnet (310). The driving unit (300) may include a magnet (310). The magnet (310) may be placed on the carrier (210). The magnet (310) may be placed on the carrier (210). The magnet (310) may be fixed to the carrier (210). The magnet (310) may be coupled to the carrier (210). The magnet (310) may be bonded to the carrier (210) with an adhesive.

[0095] The magnet (310) can be positioned corresponding to the coil (320). The magnet (310) can overlap the coil (320) in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The magnet (310) can overlap the coil (320) in the x-axis direction. The magnet (310) can be positioned to face the coil (320). The magnet (310) can face the coil (320). The magnet (310) can interact with the coil (320). The magnet (310) can electromagnetically interact with the coil (320). The magnet (310) can move when current is applied to the coil (320). The magnet (310) can move integrally with the carrier (210).

[0096] The magnet (310) may be a four-pole magnet. The magnet (310) may include a first magnet portion including a north pole and a south pole, a second magnet portion disposed on the first magnet portion and including a south pole and a north pole, and a neutral portion disposed between the first magnet portion and the second magnet portion. The magnet (310) may be disposed in the optical axis direction.

[0097] Alternatively, the magnet (310) may be a two-pole magnet. For example, the upper region of the magnet (310) may be the N pole and the lower region may be the S pole.

[0098] The magnet (310) can be positioned so that it interacts with the yoke (140). The ball (400) can be pressed between the carrier (210) and the base (110) by the force that causes the magnet (310) to move toward the yoke (140). Through this, the ball (400) can be maintained in close contact with the carrier (210) and the base (110).

[0099] The lens driving device (10) may include a coil (320). The driving unit (300) may include the coil (320). The coil (320) may be disposed on the substrate (130). The coil (320) may be fixed to the substrate (130). The coil (320) may be coupled to the substrate (130). The coil (320) may be soldered to the substrate (130). The coil (320) may be disposed on the base (110). The coil (320) may be fixed to the base (110). The coil (320) may be disposed on the side plate (122) of the cover (120). The coil (320) can be placed on the side plate (122) of the cover (120).

[0100] The coil (320) can be arranged to face the magnet (310). The coil (320) can face the magnet (310). The coil (320) can be arranged at a position corresponding to the magnet (310). The coil (320) can overlap the magnet (310) in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The coil (320) can overlap the magnet (310) in the x-axis direction. The coil (320) can move the magnet (310). The coil (320) can move the carrier (210). The coil (320) can move the lens.

[0101] When current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move. When a forward current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move upward. When a reverse current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move downward. However, conversely, when a reverse current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move upward, and when a forward current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move downward.

[0102] The lens driving device (10) may include a sensor (330). The driving unit (300) may include the sensor (330). The sensor (330) may be disposed on the substrate (130). The sensor (330) may be disposed on the substrate (130). The sensor (330) may be coupled to the substrate (130). The sensor (330) may be soldered to the substrate (130).

[0103] The sensor (330) can detect the magnet (310). The sensor (330) can detect the magnetic force of the magnet (310). The sensor (330) may be a Hall sensor. The sensor (330) can detect the position or movement of the magnet (310). Through this, the sensor (330) can detect the position or movement of the carrier (210). The sensor (330) can detect the carrier (210). The position of the magnet (310) detected by the sensor (330) can be used for autofocus feedback control.

[0104] The lens actuator (10) may include a guide portion. The guide portion may guide the movement of the movable portion relative to the fixed portion. The guide portion may guide the movement of the movable portion in the optical axis direction.

[0105] The lens actuator (10) may include a ball (400). The guide portion may include the ball (400). The ball (400) may be placed on the base (110). The ball (400) may be in contact with the base (110). The ball (400) may be placed in a groove (112) of the base (110). The ball (400) may be placed on the groove (112) of the base (110). The ball (400) may be in contact with the groove (112) of the base (110). The ball (400) may be formed of ceramic. The ball (400) may be a ceramic ball. The ball (400) may be formed of a material having a greater strength than the carrier (210).

[0106] The ball (400) can be placed on the carrier (210). The ball (400) can be placed on the carrier (210). The ball (400) can be in contact with the carrier (210). The ball (400) can be placed on the elastic body (213) of the carrier (210). The ball (400) can be in contact with the elastic body (213) of the carrier (210). The ball (400) can be placed in a groove (214) formed in the elastic body (213) of the carrier (210). The ball (400) can be placed on the groove (214) of the carrier (210). The ball (400) can be in contact with the groove (214) of the carrier (210).

[0107] The ball (400) may be placed between the base (110) and the carrier (210). The ball (400) may be placed between the groove (112) of the base (110) and the elastic body (213) of the carrier (210). The ball (400) may be placed between the base (110) and the carrier (210) in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction. The ball (400) may be placed between the carrier (210) and the base (110) in a direction in which the magnet (310) faces the yoke (140).

[0108] The ball (400) can move in the optical axis direction. The ball (400) can move together with the carrier (210) when the carrier (210) moves. The ball (400) can limit the movement of the carrier (210) to the optical axis direction. The carrier (210) can be limited by the ball (400) from moving in any direction other than the optical axis direction. The ball (400) can guide the movement of the carrier (210) in the optical axis direction. Alternatively, the ball (400) can rotate in place when the carrier (210) moves.

[0109] The ball (400) may include a plurality of balls. The ball (400) may include a first ball (401) and a second ball (402) that overlap each other in the optical axis direction. The ball (400) may include a third ball (403) and a fourth ball (404) that are arranged between the first ball (401) and the second ball (402) and have a smaller diameter than the first ball (401) and the second ball (402). However, the third ball (403) and the fourth ball (404) only maintain the distance between the first ball (401) and the second ball (402) and do not guide the movement of the carrier (210), so they may be understood as separate components from the ball (400). The third ball (403) and the fourth ball (404) may be spaced apart from the elastic body (213). The third ball (403) and the fourth ball (404) may be spaced apart from the base (110). The third ball (403) and the fourth ball (404) may be spaced apart from the carrier (210).

[0110] The third ball (403) and the fourth ball (404) can maintain the gap between the first ball (401) and the second ball (402). The diameter of each of the third ball (403) and the fourth ball (404) (see d2 in FIG. 11) may be smaller than the diameter of each of the first ball (401) and the second ball (402) (see d1 in FIG. 11). The first ball (401) and the second ball (402) may be main balls, and the third ball (403) and the fourth ball (404) may be support balls. The support balls may be used to secure space for the main balls. However, the support balls may also participate in the rolling of the moving part. In the present embodiment, an elastic body instead of an engineering plastic may be used for the main rolling surface of the raceway of the ball (400).

[0111]

[0112] Below, the configuration of the lens driving device according to the first modified example is described with reference to the drawings.

[0113] Fig. 13 (a) is a perspective view showing the plate, elastic body, and ball of the lens driving device according to the first modified example, and (b) is a perspective view viewed from a different direction from (a). Fig. 14 is a plan view and a partially enlarged view showing the plate, elastic body, and ball of the lens driving device according to the first modified example.

[0114] The first rail portion (213a) may include a first contact surface and a second contact surface that come into contact with the first ball (401). In the first modified example, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the first surface of the plate (212) may include a surface that is parallel to each of the first contact surface and the second contact surface. In other words, the first connecting portion (212-11) of the plate (212) may include a shape corresponding to the shape of the groove (214) of the elastic body (213). Accordingly, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the elastic body (213) may be formed with a constant thickness from the first connecting portion (212-11) of the plate (212) when viewed from above (see l1 = l2 = l3 in FIG. 14). Meanwhile, the second connecting portion (212-22) of the plate (212) may also be formed with the same shape as the first connecting portion (212-11). In the first modified example, the elastic body (213) includes a V-shaped groove (214), and the first connecting portion (212-11) and the second connecting portion (212-22) of the plate (212) may also include a corresponding V-shaped shape.

[0115]

[0116] Below, the configuration of the lens driving device according to the second modified example is described with reference to the drawings.

[0117] Fig. 15 is a partial perspective view illustrating a carrier and related components of a lens driving device according to a second modified example. Fig. 16 is a perspective view illustrating related components such as a plate, an elastic body, a ball, and a driving unit of a lens driving device according to a second modified example. Fig. 17 is a partial perspective view and a partially enlarged view of a modified example in which the plate shape is partially modified in the second modified example.

[0118] The lens driving device (10) according to the second modified example may include a yoke (215). The yoke (215) may be arranged between the magnet (310) and the carrier (210). The yoke (215) may be arranged on the magnet (310). The yoke (215) may be arranged on the inner surface of the magnet (310). The yoke (215) may prevent magnetic flux leakage of the magnet (310).

[0119] The elastic body (213) may include a first elastic body (213-1) and a second elastic body (213-2) that are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The plate (212) may include a first connecting portion (212-1) in which the first elastic body (213-1) is arranged, a second connecting portion (212-2) in which the second elastic body (213-2) is arranged, and a connecting portion (212-4) that connects the first connecting portion (212-1) and the second connecting portion (212-2). The connecting portion (212-4) may be arranged perpendicular to the optical axis. The connecting portion (212-4) may be arranged parallel to the lower surface of the carrier (210). The connecting portion (212-4) may be arranged adjacent to the lower surface of the carrier (210). The yoke (215) may be spaced apart from the plate (212). As a variation, the yoke (215) may be in contact with the plate (212). In a second variation, the yoke (215) may be formed as a separate member from the plate (212).

[0120] As illustrated in FIG. 17, the second modification may include another modification in which the first connecting portion (212-11) and the second connecting portion (212-22) have a bent shape, as in the first modification. In another modification, the elastic body (213) may be formed with a constant thickness from the first connecting portion (212-11) of the plate (212) when viewed from above (see l1 = l2 = l3 in FIG. 17).

[0121]

[0122] Below, the configuration of the lens driving device according to the third variation is described with reference to the drawings.

[0123] Fig. 18 is a perspective view illustrating a carrier and related configuration of a lens driving device according to a third modified example. Fig. 19 is a front view of Fig. 18 with the ball omitted. Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the shapes of the plate and elastic body according to the third modified example.

[0124] In a third variation, the elastic body (213) may include a groove (216) having a curvature corresponding to the curvature of the ball (400). The ball (400) may be placed in the groove (216) of the elastic body (213). With this structure, the ball (400) may rotate in place without moving in the optical axis direction.

[0125] In the third embodiment, the shape of the elastic body (213) is changed to change the rolling method of the ball (400) to a rolling method in place, so that the coefficient of friction when the ball (400) starts rolling can be lowered.

[0126]

[0127] Below, the configuration of the lens driving device according to the fourth variation is described with reference to the drawings.

[0128] Fig. 21 is a partial perspective view of a lens driving device according to the fourth modified example. Fig. 22 is a perspective view showing a ball and related components of a lens driving device according to the fourth modified example. Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing a base and related components of a lens driving device according to the fourth modified example. Fig. 24 is a plan view showing a ball and related components of a lens driving device according to the fourth modified example.

[0129] In the fourth variation, the base (110) may include an elastic body (116). The ball (400) may be placed on the elastic body (116) of the base (110). The ball (400) may be placed between the elastic body (213) of the carrier (210) and the elastic body (116) of the base (110).

[0130] The base (110) may include a body portion (111) that is an injection molded product and a metal plate (115) at least partially disposed within the body portion (111). The elastic body (116) of the base (110) may be coupled with the plate (115) of the base (110).

[0131] The plate (115) may include a first connecting portion (115-1). A first elastic body may be arranged in the first connecting portion (115-1). The plate (115) may include a second connecting portion (115-2). A second elastic body may be arranged in the second connecting portion (115-2). The plate (115) may include a connecting portion (115-3). The connecting portion (115-3) may connect the first connecting portion (115-1) and the second connecting portion (115-2).

[0132] In the fourth variant, ball-induced dent mitigation, a reduced coefficient of friction of the ball rail, and reduced ball impact noise can be expected. Furthermore, through the fourth variant, both the rigidity of the base (110) and the improvement of the ball rail can be expected simultaneously.

[0133]

[0134] Below, the auto focus operation of the lens driving device according to the present embodiment is described with reference to the drawings.

[0135] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the optical axis and the coordinate axis together in the drawing viewed from AA of FIG. 1, which is a perspective view of a lens driving device according to the present embodiment.

[0136] When current is applied to the coil (320), an electromagnetic field is formed around the coil (320), and the coil (320) and the magnet (310) can electromagnetically interact. At this time, since the coil (320) is fixed to the substrate (130) and the base (110), the magnet (310) can move. The magnet (310) can move together with the carrier (210) and the lens. At this time, the ball (400) guides the movement of the carrier (210) with respect to the base (110) in the optical axis direction, so the carrier (210) and the lens can move in the optical axis direction (see OA of FIG. 2). Through this, the lens can move in the optical axis direction with respect to the image sensor (60).

[0137] In more detail, when a forward current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move upward in the optical axis direction due to the interaction between the coil (320) and the magnet (310). Through this, the lens can move away from the image sensor (60).

[0138] Additionally, when a reverse current is applied to the coil (320), the magnet (310) can move downward in the optical axis direction due to the interaction between the coil (320) and the magnet (310). Through this, the lens can be brought closer to the image sensor (60).

[0139] In this way, by applying a forward or reverse current to the coil (320), the image of the subject formed on the image sensor (60) can be clearly adjusted. That is, auto focus operation can be performed.

[0140] Furthermore, the sensor (330) can detect the magnetic field of the magnet (310) in real time to detect the positions of the magnet (310), the carrier (210), and the lens. Feedback control can be performed to move the lens to a more accurate position through the position of the lens detected by the sensor (330). In the present embodiment, more precise autofocus operation can be performed through autofocus feedback control.

[0141]

[0142] Below, the configuration of the camera device according to the present embodiment is described with reference to the drawings.

[0143] Fig. 25 is an exploded perspective view of a camera device according to the present embodiment.

[0144] The camera device (10A) may include a lens driving device (10). The lens driving device (10) may be a voice coil motor (VCM). The lens driving device (10) may be a lens driving motor. The lens driving device (10) may be a lens driving actuator. The lens driving device (10) may include an AF module. As a variation, the lens driving device (10) may include an OIS module. The lens driving device (10) may be a device that drives a lens. As illustrated in the drawing, the lens driving device (10) may include a lens. However, the lens may be understood as a separate component from the lens driving device (10) as a component of the camera device (10A).

[0145] The camera device (10A) may include a lens module (20). The lens module (20) may be disposed on an image sensor (60). The lens module (20) may be coupled to a lens driving device (10). The lens module (20) may be coupled to a carrier (210) of the lens driving device (10). The lens module (20) may be moved integrally with the carrier (210). The lens module (20) may be disposed to be movable with respect to the image sensor (60). The lens module (20) may be moved in the optical axis direction with respect to the image sensor (60).

[0146] The lens module (20) may include a lens. The lens may include a plurality of lenses. The lens module (20) may include a barrel. The plurality of lenses may be arranged within the barrel. The plurality of lenses may be coupled to the inner surface of the barrel. The plurality of lenses may be arranged in a stacked manner within the barrel.

[0147] The camera device (10A) may include a filter (30). The filter (30) may block light of a specific frequency band from passing through the lens module (20) from being incident on the image sensor (60). The filter (30) may be arranged parallel to the xy plane. The filter (30) may be arranged between the lens module (20) and the image sensor (60). The filter (30) may be arranged on the sensor base (40). Alternatively, the filter (30) may be arranged on the base (110) of the lens driving device (10). The filter (30) may include an infrared filter. The infrared filter may block light in the infrared region from being incident on the image sensor (60).

[0148] The camera device (10A) may include a sensor base (40). The sensor base (40) may be disposed between the lens actuator (10) and the printed circuit board (50). The sensor base (40) may include a protrusion (41) on the inside of which a filter (30) is disposed. An opening may be formed in the portion of the sensor base (40) where the filter (30) is disposed so that light passing through the filter (30) may be incident on the image sensor (60). The adhesive member may couple or adhere the base (110) of the lens actuator (10) to the sensor base (40). The adhesive member may additionally serve to prevent foreign substances from entering the interior of the lens actuator (10). The adhesive member may include at least one of an epoxy, a thermosetting adhesive, and an ultraviolet-curable adhesive.

[0149] The camera device (10A) may include a printed circuit board (PCB) (50). The printed circuit board (50) may be a substrate or a circuit board. A lens driving device (10) may be disposed on the printed circuit board (50). A sensor base (40) may be disposed between the printed circuit board (50) and the lens driving device (10). The printed circuit board (50) may be electrically connected to the lens driving device (10). An image sensor (60) may be disposed on the printed circuit board (50). Various circuits, components, control units, etc. may be provided on the printed circuit board (50) to convert an image formed on the image sensor (60) into an electrical signal and transmit it to an external device.

[0150] The camera device (10A) may include an image sensor (60). The image sensor (60) may be configured to form an image by incident light passing through a lens and a filter (30). The image sensor (60) may be mounted on a printed circuit board (50). The image sensor (60) may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board (50). For example, the image sensor (60) may be coupled to the printed circuit board (50) using surface mounting technology (SMT). As another example, the image sensor (60) may be coupled to the printed circuit board (50) using flip chip technology. The image sensor (60) may be arranged such that its optical axis is aligned with that of the lens. That is, the optical axis of the image sensor (60) and the optical axis of the lens may be aligned. The image sensor (60) can convert light irradiated onto the effective image area of ​​the image sensor (60) into an electrical signal. The image sensor (60) can be any one of a CCD (charge coupled device), a MOS (metal oxide semi-conductor), a CPD, and a CID.

[0151] The camera device (10A) may include a motion sensor (70). The motion sensor (70) may be mounted on a printed circuit board (50). The motion sensor (70) may be electrically connected to a control unit (80) through a circuit pattern provided on the printed circuit board (50). The motion sensor (70) may output rotational angular velocity information due to the movement of the camera device (10A). The motion sensor (70) may include a two-axis or three-axis gyro sensor or an angular velocity sensor.

[0152] The camera device (10A) may include a control unit (80). The control unit (80) may be disposed on a printed circuit board (50). The control unit (80) may be electrically connected to a coil (320) of a lens driving device (10). The control unit (80) may individually control the direction, intensity, amplitude, etc. of the current supplied to the coil (320). The control unit (80) may control the lens driving device (10) to perform an autofocus function and / or a shake correction function. Furthermore, the control unit (80) may perform autofocus feedback control and / or shake correction feedback control for the lens driving device (10).

[0153] The camera device (10A) may include a connector (90). The connector (90) may be electrically connected to a printed circuit board (50). The connector (90) may include a port for electrically connecting to an external device.

[0154]

[0155] Below, the configuration of the optical device according to the present embodiment is described with reference to the drawings.

[0156] Fig. 26 is a perspective view of an optical device according to the present embodiment.

[0157] The optical device (1) may include one or more of a mobile phone, a cell phone, a portable terminal, a mobile terminal, a smart phone, a smart pad, a portable smart device, a digital camera, a laptop computer, a digital broadcasting terminal, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a PMP (Portable Multimedia Player), and a navigation device. The optical device (1) may include any device for taking images or photographs.

[0158] An optical device (1) may include a main body (2). The optical device (1) may include a camera device (10A). The camera device (10A) may be disposed on the main body (2). The camera device (10A) may photograph a subject. The optical device (1) may include a display. The display may be disposed on the main body (2). The display may output one or more of a video or image captured by the camera device (10A). The display may be disposed on a first surface of the main body (2). The camera device (10A) may be disposed on one or more of the first surface of the main body (2) and a second surface opposite the first surface. The camera device (10A) may have a triple camera disposed in a vertical direction. Alternatively, the camera device (10A) may have a triple camera disposed in a horizontal direction.

[0159]

[0160] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described with reference to the attached drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without altering the technical concept or essential features thereof. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive.

Claims

1. Base; A carrier placed within the above base; A magnet and coil for moving the carrier relative to the base; and including a ball disposed between the base and the carrier, The carrier comprises an elastic body, The above ball is a lens actuator arranged on the elastic body of the above carrier.

2. In paragraph 1, A lens actuator comprising at least one of rubber and elastomer.

3. In paragraph 1, The carrier comprises a body part which is an injection molded product and a metal plate at least part of which is disposed within the body part, The above elastic body is a lens actuator coupled to the above plate.

4. In paragraph 3, The carrier includes a hole formed in the optical axis direction in the body portion, The elastic body includes a first surface on which the ball is placed and a second surface opposite the first surface, A lens actuator in which the second surface of the elastic body is placed in the hole and spaced apart from the body.

5. In paragraph 3, The above ball includes a first ball and a second ball that overlap each other in the optical axis direction, The elastic body includes a first rail portion on which the first ball is placed, a second rail portion on which the second ball is placed, and a connecting portion connecting the first rail portion and the second rail portion. The plate includes a first surface facing the ball and a second surface opposite the first surface, The first rail portion and the second rail portion of the elastic body protrude from the first surface of the plate, A lens actuator in which the connecting portion of the elastic body is arranged on the second surface of the plate.

6. In paragraph 5, Including a third ball and a fourth ball disposed between the first ball and the second ball and having a smaller diameter than the first ball and the second ball, The third ball and the fourth ball are a lens actuator spaced apart from the elastic body.

7. In paragraph 5, The above first rail portion includes a first contact surface and a second contact surface that come into contact with the first ball, A lens driving device wherein the first surface of the plate includes a surface parallel to each of the first contact surface and the second contact surface.

8. In paragraph 3, The above elastic body includes a first elastic body and a second elastic body spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, The plate includes a first connecting portion where the first elastic body is arranged, a second connecting portion where the second elastic body is arranged, and a connecting portion connecting the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. The above magnet is a lens driving device arranged at the above connecting portion of the above plate.

9. In paragraph 3, Including a yoke disposed between the magnet and the carrier, The above elastic body includes a first elastic body and a second elastic body spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, The plate includes a first connecting portion where the first elastic body is arranged, a second connecting portion where the second elastic body is arranged, and a connecting portion connecting the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. The above connecting portion is arranged perpendicular to the optical axis, The above yoke is a lens actuator spaced apart from the above plate.

10. In paragraph 1, The elastic body includes a groove having a curvature corresponding to the curvature of the ball, The above ball is a lens actuator arranged in the groove of the above elastic body.

Images