Camera module

Abstract

This camera module comprises: a first body including a barrel part having a hole therein; a lens module, at least a portion of which is coupled to the hole and which has a flange portion disposed on the side surface thereof; a substrate module including an image sensor facing the lens module in the optical axis direction; and an adhesive member for coupling the first body and the lens module to each other, wherein the adhesive member includes a top portion disposed on the upper surface of the flange portion, and a side portion extending from the top portion and disposed on the side surface of the flange portion.

Description

Camera module

[0001] This embodiment relates to a camera module.

[0002]

[0003] Recently, ultra-small camera modules are being developed and are widely used in small electronic products such as smartphones, laptops, and game consoles.

[0004] With the popularization of automobiles, micro cameras are widely used not only in small electronic devices but also in vehicles. For example, they are equipped with dashcam cameras for vehicle protection or objective data regarding traffic accidents, rear-view cameras that allow the driver to monitor blind spots behind the vehicle via a screen to ensure safety when reversing, and surrounding detection cameras that monitor the vehicle's vicinity.

[0005] The camera module includes a lens module comprising a lens and a lens barrel, an image sensor that converts the image of a body collected by the lens into an electrical signal, a printed circuit board on which the image sensor is mounted, and a housing to which the printed circuit board and the lens module are combined. The housing, which forms the exterior of the camera, is constructed with a structure that is sealed in its entire area to prevent internal components from being contaminated by foreign substances containing moisture.

[0006] For example, a lens module can be coupled to a hole formed on the housing. In this case, an adhesive may be placed between the lens module and the housing to provide adhesion between them, and a sealing structure may be implemented to prevent the ingress of external foreign substances into the space between the lens module and the housing. However, if the adhesion between the lens module and the housing through the adhesive is insufficient, misalignment between the lens and the image sensor may occur, leading to a degradation in image quality, and external foreign substances and moisture may enter the space within the housing.

[0007]

[0008] The present invention provides a camera module that can produce optimal optical characteristics by facilitating optical axis alignment through structural improvement, thereby enabling a lens module to be firmly fixed on a housing, and can sufficiently secure the sealing power of the space within the housing.

[0009]

[0010] A camera module according to the present embodiment comprises: a first body including a barrel portion having a hole formed on the inside; a lens module having at least a portion coupled to the hole and a flange portion disposed on its side; a substrate module including an image sensor facing the lens module in the direction of the optical axis; and an adhesive member for coupling the first body and the lens module, wherein the adhesive member comprises an upper surface portion disposed on the upper surface of the flange portion and a side portion extending from the upper surface portion and disposed on the side of the flange portion.

[0011] The upper surface of the barrel portion includes a first protrusion having a first surface formed on its upper surface and a second protrusion disposed inside the first protrusion having a second surface formed on its upper surface, and the upper surface portion and the side portion may each be disposed inside the first protrusion.

[0012] Based on the optical axis direction, the second surface may be positioned below the first surface.

[0013] The adhesive member may include a second region disposed between the second surface and the lower surface of the flange portion.

[0014] It includes a groove disposed between the first protrusion and the second protrusion, and with respect to the optical axis direction, the bottom surface of the groove may be disposed below the first surface and the second surface.

[0015] The adhesive member may include a first region that extends from the bottom of the side portion and is disposed in the groove.

[0016] The above upper surface can be connected to the upper surface of the barrel portion.

[0017] The lens module comprises: a barrel; a plurality of lenses disposed within the barrel; and a retainer coupled to the barrel and supporting the outermost lens among the plurality of lenses, wherein the flange portion may protrude from the side of the retainer.

[0018] The heating element provides heat to the outermost lens, and the heating element includes a heating portion coupled to the surface of the outermost lens; a terminal portion connected to the substrate module; and a connecting portion connecting the heating element and the terminal portion, wherein at least a portion of the connecting portion may be disposed between the retainer and the barrel.

[0019] Based on the direction perpendicular to the optical axis, the distance between the side of the flange portion and the inner surface of the first protrusion may be 0.5 mm.

[0020]

[0021] Through this embodiment, based on the flange portion of the lens module which is the coupling area with the first body, the adhesive member is coupled to a plurality of surfaces of the flange portion, thereby providing the advantage that the first body and the lens module can be firmly coupled.

[0022]

[0023] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention,

[0024] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a drawing of FIG. 2 shown from a different angle.

[0026] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the first body and the second body in FIG. 3.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an enlarged view of one area of ​​FIG. 5.

[0029] FIGS. 7 and 8 are drawings for explaining the process of combining a housing and a lens module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030]

[0031] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0032] However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to some of the described embodiments but can be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, one or more of the components among the embodiments may be selectively combined or substituted.

[0033] In addition, terms used in the embodiments of the present invention (including technical and scientific terms) may be interpreted in a meaning that is generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise. Terms that are commonly used, such as terms defined in advance, may be interpreted in consideration of their meaning in the context of the relevant technology.

[0034] Furthermore, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for the purpose of describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0035] In this specification, the singular form may include the plural form unless specifically stated otherwise in the text, and when described as "at least one of A and B and C (or more than one)," it may include one or more of all combinations that can be formed from A, B, and C.

[0036] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used when describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention. These terms are used merely to distinguish the components from other components and are not intended to limit the essence, order, or sequence of the components.

[0037] And, where it is stated that a component is 'connected', 'combined', or 'connected' to another component, this may include not only cases where the component is directly 'connected', 'combined', or 'connected' to the other component, but also cases where it is 'connected', 'combined', or 'connected' due to another component located between the component and the other component.

[0038] Furthermore, when described as being formed or placed "above" or "below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or placed between the two components. Additionally, when expressed as "above" or "below," it may include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction relative to a single component.

[0039] The 'optical axis direction' used below is defined as the optical axis direction of the lens. Meanwhile, the 'optical axis direction' may correspond to the 'up-down direction', 'z-axis direction (see FIG. 5)', etc.

[0040] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is a drawing showing FIG. 2 from a different angle, FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the first body and the second body in an enlarged view in FIG. 3, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an enlarged view of one area of ​​FIG. 5, and FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 are drawings for explaining the process of combining a housing and a lens module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 78, a camera module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be a vehicle camera module. The camera module (10) may be coupled to a vehicle. The camera module (10) may be used in one or more of a front camera, a side camera, a rear camera, an interior camera, and a black box of a vehicle. The camera module (10) may be positioned at the front of the vehicle. The camera module (10) may be positioned at the rear of the vehicle. The camera module (10) may be coupled to the windshield of the vehicle. The camera module (10) may be coupled to the windshield at the front or rear of the vehicle. The camera module (10) may be positioned on the side of the vehicle. The camera module (10) may be positioned inside the vehicle. The camera module (10) may capture a subject and output it as an image to a display (not shown).

[0043] The camera module (10) may include a first body (100), a second body (200), a lens module (300), a substrate module (400), a heating element (500), a sealing element (600), and an adhesive element (700).

[0044] The camera module (10) may include a first body (100). The first body (100) may be named any one of a front body, an upper housing, a first housing, or a front cover. The first body (100) may include a body portion (110). The first body (100) may include a barrel portion (130). The barrel portion (130) may also be named a protrusion portion in that it protrudes upward from the body portion (110). The body portion (110) and the barrel portion (130) may be formed integrally or as separate components.

[0045] The body portion (110) can be placed on the second body (200). The body portion (110) can be coupled to the second body (200). The lower end of the body portion (110) can be fixed to the second body (200). The body portion (110) can be coupled to the second body (200) by a sealing member (600). The sealing member (600) has adhesive properties and can bind the body portion (110) to the second body (200) by curing. Through the sealing member (600), external foreign substances can be prevented from entering the space inside the camera module (10) between the body portion (110) and the second body (200).

[0046] The method of joining the first body (100) and the second body (200) described above is exemplary, and the first body (100) and the second body (200) may be joined by welding, in which case the sealing member (600) may be omitted.

[0047] The body part (110) can be combined with the substrate module (400).

[0048] The body portion (110) may be formed in a rectangular shape with an open bottom. At this time, the corners of the body portion (110) may be formed rounded. The body portion (110) may include a top plate (112) and a first side plate (114) extending downward from the edge of the top plate (112). The top plate (112) may be formed in a rectangular shape. The top plate (112) may extend outward from the lower outer surface of the barrel portion (120). The first side plate (114) may extend downward from the outer edge of the top plate (112). The first side plate (114) may be provided in multiple numbers. The first side plate (114) may include four side plates. The first side plate (114) may be formed in the shape of a rectangular plate. The first side plate (114) may include a first-1 side plate and a first-2 side plate, a first-3 side plate positioned opposite the first-1 side plate, and a first-4 side plate positioned opposite the first-2 side plate. The first side plate (114) may include first-1 to first-4 corners positioned between the first-1 to first-4 side plates, respectively. Each of the first-1 to first-4 corners may include a round shape in at least a portion to connect a plurality of first side plates (114).

[0049] A space portion separated from other areas may be formed on the inner side of the body portion (110). The space portion has an open bottom and its upper portion may be covered through the lower surface of the barrel portion (130) and the lens module (300).

[0050] The body portion (110) may include a first guide (160). The first guide (160) may have a shape that protrudes downward along the optical axis direction (Z) from the lower surface of the top plate (112). The first guide (160) may be in contact with the upper surface of the substrate module (400). The lower surface of the first guide (160) may be in contact with the upper surface of the substrate module (400). The lower surface of the first guide (160) may be in contact with the upper surface of the first substrate (410) of the substrate module (400) to be described later. Through the first guide (160), the coupling area of ​​the substrate module (400) may be guided within the space of the camera module (10). The lower surface of the first guide (160) may be positioned closer to the lower plate (220) of the second body (200) with respect to the optical axis direction (Z) than the lower surface of the first side plate (114).

[0051] A first screw hole (162) and a first guide projection (164) may be disposed on the lower surface of the first guide (160). The area of ​​placement of the first screw hole (162) and the first guide projection (164) in the first guide (160) may have a shape that protrudes outward from the side of the first guide (160) with respect to the direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z). The first screw hole (162) and the first guide projection (164) may be disposed adjacent to each other. The first screw hole (162) and the first guide projection (164) may each be provided in multiple numbers and disposed facing each other in the direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z) with respect to the center of the first body (100).

[0052] The first screw hole (162) may have an upwardly concave hole shape in the direction toward the lens module (300) from the lower surface of the first guide (160). The first screw hole (162) may have an upwardly concave hole shape in the optical axis direction (Z) from the lower surface of the first guide (160). The first guide projection (164) may have a downwardly protruding shape in the direction toward the second body (200) from the lower surface of the first guide (160). The first body (100) can be screw-coupled to the substrate module (400) through the first screw hole (162). The first guide projection (164) can be coupled to the first guide hole (418) of the substrate module (400), which will be described later.

[0053] The body portion (110) may include a second guide (180). The second guide (180) may have a shape that protrudes downward along the optical axis direction (Z) from the lower surface of the top plate (112). The second guide (180) may come into contact with the substrate module (400). The lower surface of the second guide (180) may penetrate the first substrate (410) and come into contact with the upper surface of the second substrate (420) of the substrate module (400) to be described later. Through the second guide (180), the coupling area of ​​the substrate module (400) can be guided within the space of the camera module (10). With respect to the optical axis direction (Z), the length of the second guide (180) may be longer than the length of the first guide (160). The lower surface of the second guide (180) can be positioned closer to the lower plate (220) of the second body (200) with respect to the optical axis direction (Z) than the lower surface of the first guide (160).

[0054] A second screw hole (182) and a second guide projection (184) may be disposed on the lower surface of the second guide (180). The second screw hole (182) and the second guide projection (184) may be disposed adjacent to each other. The second guide (180) may be provided in multiple numbers. Multiple second guides (180) may be disposed facing each other in a direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z) with respect to the center of the first body (100).

[0055] The second screw hole (182) may have an upwardly concave hole shape in the direction toward the lens module (300) from the lower surface of the second guide (180). The second guide projection (184) may have a downwardly protruding shape in the direction toward the second body (200) from the lower surface of the second guide (180). Through the second screw hole (182), the first body (100) can be screw-coupled to the second substrate (420) of the substrate module (400). The second guide projection (184) can be coupled to the second guide hole (428) of the substrate module (400), which will be described later.

[0056] The body portion (110) may include a first coupling portion (190). The first coupling portion (190) may have a shape that protrudes downward along the optical axis direction (Z) from the lower surface of the top plate (112). The first coupling portion (190) may be provided in multiple numbers and each may be disposed in the four corner areas of the lower surface of the body portion (110). A screw hole (192) may be formed on the lower surface of the first coupling portion (190). A second coupling portion (290) having a downwardly concave groove shape may be disposed in the area of ​​the upper surface of the second body (200) that faces the first coupling portion (190) in the optical axis direction (Z). A screw hole (292) facing the screw hole (192) of the first coupling portion (190) in the optical axis direction may be disposed on the bottom surface of the second coupling portion (290). Accordingly, the first body (100) and the second body (200) can be screw-coupled through a screw coupled to the screw hole (192) of the first coupling part (190) and the screw hole (292) of the second coupling part (290).

[0057] A coupling groove (196) with a concave shape facing upward in the direction of the optical axis may be disposed on the lower surface of the first coupling part (190) facing the second body (200). A coupling projection (294) that engages with the coupling groove (196) is disposed on the second body (200) and the second coupling part (290) to be described later, and when the first body (100) and the second body (200) are coupled, the coupling of the coupling projection (294) and the coupling groove (196) can guide the coupling of the first body (100) and the coupling of the first coupling part (190) and the second coupling part (290) on the second body (200).

[0058] The first body (100) may include a barrel portion (130). The barrel portion (130) may have a circular cross-sectional shape in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z). The barrel portion (130) may be disposed on the body portion (110). The barrel portion (130) may extend upward along the optical axis direction (Z) from the upper surface of the body portion (110). The barrel portion (130) may be formed integrally with the body portion (110) or formed as a separate component. As a variation, the barrel portion (130) may be coupled to the body portion (110). In this case, the barrel portion (130) may be fixed to the body portion (110) by an adhesive. The barrel portion (130) may accommodate a lens module (300) inside. A hole to which the lens module (300) is coupled may be disposed on the barrel portion (130). A lens module (300) can be attached to the hole of the barrel portion (130).

[0059] The first body (100) may include a lens coupling portion (150). The lens coupling portion (150) may be disposed inside the barrel portion (130). The lens coupling portion (150) may have a pipe shape including an opening (152, see FIG. 2) that penetrates from the upper surface to the lower surface. At least a portion of the lens module (300) may be coupled to the opening (152) of the lens coupling portion (150). Through the lens coupling portion (150), the coupling area of ​​the lens module (300) within the first body (100) may be guided. The first body (100) may include an extension portion (155, see FIG. 5) that horizontally connects the outer surface of the lens coupling portion (150) and the inner surface of the barrel portion (130). A through hole (156) through which a heating element (500), to be described later, penetrates may be formed in the extension portion (155).

[0060] The first body (100) may be made of metal or plastic.

[0061] The camera module (10) may include a second body (200). The second body (200) may be named a rear body, a lower housing, a second housing, or a rear cover. The second body (200) may be formed in a rectangular shape with an open top. At this time, the corners of the second body (200) may be formed rounded. The second body (200) may be formed of a metal material. The second body (200) may be placed below the first body (100). The second body (200) may be combined with the first body (100). The second body (200) may form an internal space through combination with the first body (100). The second body (200) may include a space (202) with an open top surface.

[0062] The second body (200) may include a bottom plate (220). The bottom plate (220) may face the top plate (112) of the first body (100) in the direction of the optical axis. The bottom plate (220) may be spaced apart from the top plate (112) of the first body (110) in the direction of the optical axis. The bottom plate (220) may be parallel to the top plate (112) of the first body (100) in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The bottom plate (220) may be formed in a square shape. At this time, the corners of the bottom plate (220) may include a round shape in at least a part. In this case, the round shape of the corners of the second body (200) and the round shape of the corners of the bottom plate (220) may have corresponding shapes.

[0063] The second body (200) may include a second side plate (210). The second side plate (210) may extend upward in the optical axis direction (Z) from the bottom plate (220). The second side plate (210) may extend upward in the optical axis direction from the outer edge of the bottom plate (220). A shield member (not shown) may be disposed on the inner side of the second side plate (210). The shield member may be in surface contact with the inner surface of the second side plate (210). Accordingly, external electrical noise may be prevented from being transmitted into the space within the camera module (10).

[0064] The upper end of the second side plate (210) can be combined with the first body (100). The upper surface of the second side plate (210) can be positioned to face the lower surface of the first side plate (114) in the optical axis direction (Z). The upper surface of the second side plate (210) can be combined with the lower surface of the first side plate (114) through a sealing member (600). Additionally, as described above, the first body (100) and the second body (200) can be screw-coupled through the first coupling part (190) and the second coupling part (290).

[0065] The second body (200) may include a connector extraction portion (280). The connector extraction portion (280) may have a shape that protrudes downward from the lower surface of the bottom plate (220). The connector extraction portion (280) may be in the shape of a pipe having a hollow so that a connector (490) is disposed inside. A sealing member (not shown) is disposed between the inner surface of the connector extraction portion (280) and the outer surface of the connector (490) to prevent external foreign matter from entering the space inside the camera module (10).

[0066] The camera module (10) may include a lens module (300). The lens module (300) may be coupled to the first body (100). The lens module (300) may be coupled to the inside of the barrel portion (130). The lens module (300) may be positioned such that at least a portion is placed inside the barrel portion (130) and the remaining portion protrudes upward from the first body (100). At least a portion of the lens module (300) may be placed within the opening (152) of the lens coupling portion (150).

[0067] The lens module (300) may include a barrel (310) and at least one lens (320) accommodated within the barrel (310). The lens (320) may be positioned facing the image sensor (412) of the substrate module (400), which will be described later, in the direction of the optical axis. The lens (320) may be aligned with the image sensor (412) in the direction of the optical axis. The lens (320) may be provided in multiple numbers and arranged spaced apart from each other along the direction of the optical axis within the barrel (310). Among the multiple lenses (320), the outermost lens may be exposed upward from the camera module (10).

[0068] The barrel (310) may include a space on the inside with upper and lower openings. A lens (320) may be placed in the space within the barrel (310). The barrel (310) may have a circular cross-sectional shape in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The barrel (310) may be made of metal.

[0069] A retainer (330) may be disposed on the barrel (310). The retainer (330) may be coupled to the barrel (310). The retainer (330) may support the outermost lens disposed on the barrel (310). A hole may be disposed on the upper surface of the retainer (330) to expose the outermost lens. As shown in FIG. 5, the retainer (330) may include an upper surface (332) and a side portion (334) extending downward along the optical axis direction (Z) from the edge of the upper surface (332).

[0070] The retainer (330) may be formed with a body different from the barrel (310), but is not limited thereto, and the lens module (300) may have a structure in which the retainer (330) and the barrel (310) are formed as one body.

[0071] The lens module (300) may include a flange portion (350). The flange portion (350) may have a shape that protrudes outward from the side of the lens module (300) in a direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z). For example, the flange portion (350) may have a shape that protrudes outward from the side portion (334) of the retainer (330) in a direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z), but is not limited thereto. When the barrel (310) and the retainer (330) are formed as one body, or when the retainer (330) is omitted, the flange portion (350) may have a shape that protrudes outward from the side of the barrel (310) in a direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z). The flange portion (350) may be arranged to overlap the barrel portion (130) of the first body (100) in a direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z). The flange portion (350) may have a circular cross-sectional shape in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. The coupling structure of the first body (100) and the lens module (300) through the flange portion (350) will be described later.

[0072] The camera module (10) may include a substrate module (400). The substrate module (400) may be disposed in a space within the camera module (10) formed by the combination of the first body (100) and the second body (200). The substrate module (400) may be disposed between the first body (100) and the second body (200).

[0073] The substrate module (400) may include at least one printed circuit board (PCB). For example, the substrate module (400) may include a first substrate (410), a second substrate (420), a third substrate (430), and a fourth substrate (440). The first substrate (410), the second substrate (420), the third substrate (430), and the fourth substrate (440) may be arranged sequentially along the optical axis direction (Z). For example, the second substrate (420) may be placed below the first substrate (410), the third substrate (430) may be placed below the second substrate (420), and the fourth substrate (440) may be placed below the third substrate (430). The first to fourth substrates (410, 420, 430, 440) can each be spaced apart from an adjacent substrate in the optical axis direction (Z).

[0074] An image sensor (412) may be disposed on the upper surface of the first substrate (410). The image sensor (412) may be disposed on the first substrate (410) and positioned to face the lens (320) of the lens module (300) in the optical axis direction (Z). The image sensor (412) may be aligned with the lens (320) in the optical axis.

[0075] The first substrate (410) may include a third screw hole (416) and a first guide hole (418). The third screw hole (416) and the first guide hole (418) may each have a hole shape that penetrates from the upper surface to the lower surface of the first substrate (410). The third screw hole (416) and the first guide hole (418) may be arranged adjacent to each other. The third screw hole (416) and the first guide hole (418) may each be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple third screw holes (416) and the multiple first guide holes (418) may each be arranged on one side and the other side of the first substrate (410). The third screw hole (416) may be arranged facing the first screw hole (162) of the first guide (160) in the optical axis direction (Z). Accordingly, as the screw penetrates the third screw hole (416) and is coupled to the first screw hole (162), the first substrate (410) can be screw-coupled to the lower surface of the first guide (160). The first guide projection (164) of the first guide (160) can be coupled to the first guide hole (418). Accordingly, the coupling direction of the substrate module (400) can be guided to the lower surface of the first body (100). The third screw hole (416) and the first guide hole (418) may be formed with different diameters.

[0076] The second substrate (420) may be placed below the first substrate (410). The cross-sectional area of ​​the second substrate (420) may be larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first substrate (410). At least one electronic component for driving the camera module (10) may be placed on the second substrate (420).

[0077] The second substrate (420) may include a fourth screw hole (426) and a second guide hole (428). The fourth screw hole (426) and the second guide hole (428) may each have a hole shape that penetrates from the upper surface to the lower surface of the second substrate (420). The fourth screw hole (426) and the second guide hole (428) may be arranged adjacent to each other. The fourth screw hole (426) and the second guide hole (428) may each be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple fourth screw holes (426) and the multiple second guide holes (428) may each be arranged on one side and the other side of the third substrate (420). The fourth screw hole (426) may be arranged to face the second screw hole (182) of the second guide (180) of the first body (100) in the optical axis direction (Z). Accordingly, as the screw penetrates the fourth screw hole (426) and is coupled to the second screw hole (182), the second substrate (420) can be screw-coupled to the lower surface of the second guide (180). The second guide projection (184) of the second guide (180) can be coupled to the second guide hole (428). Accordingly, the coupling direction of the substrate module (400) can be guided to the lower surface of the first body (100). The fourth screw hole (426) and the second guide hole (428) may be formed with different diameters. Meanwhile, due to the difference in cross-sectional area between the first substrate (410) and the second substrate (420) described above, at least a portion of the second substrate (420) may include an area that does not overlap with the first substrate (410) in the optical axis direction, and the fourth screw hole (426) and the second guide hole (428) may be placed in the area of ​​the second substrate (420) that does not overlap with the first substrate (410) in the optical axis direction. The third screw hole (416) and the first guide hole (418) may be formed so as not to overlap with the fourth screw hole (426) and the second guide hole (418) in the optical axis direction. Accordingly, the second guide (180) may pass through the first substrate (410) and be coupled onto the second substrate (420).

[0078] The third substrate (430) may be placed below the second substrate (420). At least one electronic component for driving the camera module (10) may be placed on the third substrate (430).

[0079] The fourth board (440) may be placed below the third board (430). At least one electronic component for driving the camera module (10) may be placed on the fourth board (440). For example, a connector (490) may be attached to the lower surface of the fourth board (440). Depending on the electrical and physical connection with an external terminal through the connector (490), power may be supplied to the camera module (10), or an electrical signal related to the driving of the camera module (10) may be transmitted or received.

[0080] The substrate module (400) may include a connecting substrate (460). The connecting substrate (460) may electrically connect the first substrate (410) and the second substrate (420), the second substrate (420) and the third substrate (430), and the third substrate (430) and the fourth substrate (440). The connecting substrate (460) may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).

[0081] The substrate module (400) may include a support member (450). The support member (450) may be disposed between the first substrate (410) and the second substrate (420), between the second substrate (420) and the third substrate (430), and between the third substrate (430) and the fourth substrate (440). For example, the support member (450) may be disposed between the second substrate (420) and the third substrate (430), and between the third substrate (430) and the fourth substrate (440). The support member (450) may be omitted between the first substrate (410) and the second substrate (420). This is in consideration of the fact that the first substrate (410) and the second substrate (420) are screw-coupled to the first guide (160) and the second guide (180), respectively.

[0082] A plurality of adjacent substrates in the direction of the optical axis can be supported through a support member (450). The support member (450) may include a fence portion (452) and a hook portion (456) extending from the fence portion (452) in the direction of the optical axis. The fence portion (452) may be positioned between a plurality of adjacent substrates in the direction of the optical axis. The hook portion (456) extends from the fence portion (452) and may be positioned to overlap with any one of the plurality of substrates in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the optical axis. The hook portion (456) may include a coupling hole. A protrusion that is coupled to the coupling hole may be positioned on the side of the substrate facing the coupling hole of the hook portion (456). A plurality of hook portions (456) may be provided and each may be positioned on the remaining side of the fence portion (452), excluding the positioning area of ​​the aforementioned connecting substrate (460). However, this is not limited to this, and the hook portion (456) may be omitted on any side of the fence portion (452) that is not placed on the connecting board (460).

[0083] The camera module (10) may include a heating element (500). One end of the heating element (500) may be coupled to a lens (320), and the other end may be coupled to a substrate module (400). The heating element (500) may include a heating portion (510), a connecting portion (520), and a terminal portion (530). The heating portion (510) has a ring-shaped cross-section and can generate heat by providing power. The heating portion (510) may be coupled to the lower surface of the outermost lens among the plurality of lenses (320) of the lens module (300). Frost on the outermost lens may be removed by the heat generated from the heating portion (510). The terminal portion (530) may be coupled to any one of the plurality of substrates of the substrate module (400). For example, the terminal portion (530) may be coupled to a terminal disposed on the lower surface of the first substrate (410). The connecting portion (520) can electrically connect the heating portion (510) and the terminal portion (530). The connecting portion (520) may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The connecting portion (520) may be positioned to pass through the through hole (156) of the first body (100) described above.

[0084] Below, the combined structure of the first body (100) and the lens module (300) will be described.

[0085] As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 5, a barrel portion (130) may be disposed on the first body (100). A hole to which a lens module (300) is coupled may be formed on the upper surface of the barrel portion (130).

[0086] The upper surface of the barrel portion (130) may include a first surface (132) and a second surface (134) disposed on the inner side of the first surface (132). The first surface (132) and the second surface (134) may be arranged with a step difference from each other in the optical axis direction (Z). The first surface (132) may be arranged above the second surface (134) with respect to the optical axis direction (Z). The second surface (134) may be arranged to overlap with the flange portion (350) of the lens module (300) in the optical axis direction (Z). The second surface (134) may be arranged to overlap with the lower surface of the flange portion (350) in the optical axis direction (Z). The first surface (132) may be arranged with a step difference from the upper surface of the flange portion (350) in the optical axis direction. The first surface (132) may be positioned above the upper surface of the flange portion (350) with respect to the optical axis direction (Z). A groove (136) may be positioned between the first surface (132) and the second surface (134). The bottom surface of the groove (136) may be positioned lower than the second surface (134) with respect to the optical axis direction (Z).

[0087] When the bottom surface of the groove (136) is defined as the upper surface of the barrel portion (130), it can be understood that a first protrusion (133) and a second protrusion (135) are disposed on the barrel portion (130). The first protrusion (133) and the second protrusion (135) may each have a shape that protrudes upward in the optical axis direction (Z) from the upper surface of the barrel portion (130). The protrusion length of the first protrusion (133) in the optical axis direction (Z) may be longer than the protrusion length of the second protrusion (135). The first surface (132) may form the upper surface of the first protrusion (133), and the second surface (134) may form the upper surface of the second protrusion (135). The first protrusion (133) and the second protrusion (135) may each have a ring-shaped cross-sectional shape with respect to the direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z). The groove (136) may have a ring-shaped cross-sectional shape with respect to the direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z). At least a portion of the first protrusion (133) may be arranged to overlap with the flange portion (350) in the direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z). The flange portion (350) may be arranged on the second protrusion (135) along the optical axis direction (Z).

[0088] The camera module (10) may include an adhesive member (700). The adhesive member (700) may mutually connect the first body (100) and the lens module (300). The adhesive member (700) may be disposed between the barrel portion (130) and the flange portion (350). The adhesive member (700) may include a thermosetting or photocurable adhesive. For example, the adhesive member (700) may be epoxy.

[0089] The adhesive member (700) may include an upper surface portion (710) and a side portion (720). The upper surface portion (710) and the side portion (720) may each be positioned inside the first protrusion (133). The upper surface portion (710) may be positioned on the flange portion (350). The upper surface of the upper surface portion (710) may be exposed upward from the camera module (10). The upper surface of the upper surface portion (710) may be connected to the first surface (132). The upper surface of the upper surface portion (710) may be positioned to form a plane with respect to the direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z) with respect to the first surface (132), but is not limited thereto, and may have a shape that protrudes upward from the first surface (132) or is concave downward from the first surface (132).

[0090] The side portion (720) may be positioned between the side of the flange portion (350) and the inner surface of the first protrusion (133). The side portion (720) may have a shape that extends downward along the optical axis direction (Z) from the edge of the upper portion (710). The side portion (720) may be positioned so that at least a portion overlaps the groove (136) in the optical axis direction (Z).

[0091] In the coupling structure between the first body (100) and the lens module (300) through the adhesive member (700), if the adhesive member (700) is placed only on a single surface, for example, between the lower surface of the flange portion (350) and the upper surface of the barrel portion (130), the adhesive force is insufficient, and the lens module (300) may be misaligned from the first body (100). In particular, considering that vibrations occur frequently in the case of a vehicle camera module, when the lens module (300) is misaligned, the alignment with the image sensor (412) is also misaligned, and thus the shooting quality may be degraded.

[0092] According to the embodiment, as the adhesive member (700) is positioned between a plurality of surfaces (top and side) of the flange portion (350) having different angles and the surface of the barrel portion (130), there is an advantage of improved bonding strength due to increased bonding area.

[0093] Meanwhile, the adhesive member (700) can be formed by curing a liquid adhesive. In this case, to resolve the problem of some of the adhesive flowing into the space within the camera module (10) during the application process of the adhesive, according to an embodiment, the flow of the adhesive can be minimized by forming a groove (136) on the barrel portion (130) which overlaps the side portion (720) in the optical axis direction (Z). In this case, the area of ​​the adhesive member (700) received in the groove (136) which protrudes downward from the side portion (720) can be named the first area (730, see FIG. 6), and the first area (730) can overlap the first protrusion (133) and the second protrusion (135) in a direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z).

[0094] The distance (A, see FIG. 6) in the direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z) between the side of the flange portion (350), which is the placement area of ​​the side portion (720) of the adhesive member (700), and the inner surface of the first protrusion (133) may be less than 0.5 mm in the range exceeding 0 mm. When the value is 0mm, it is difficult to secure the placement area of ​​the side portion (720) as the side of the flange portion (350) and the inner surface of the first protrusion (133) come into contact, and when the value exceeds 0.5mm, an excessive amount of adhesive is required to form the side portion (720), and at the same time, the distance between the side of the flange portion (350) and the inner surface of the first protrusion (133) increases excessively, making it difficult to secure sufficient adhesive strength through the adhesive member (700), and in particular, there is a problem that the optical axis alignment between the lens (320) and the image sensor (412) is not easy due to the increase in the thickness of the adhesive member (700) during the curing process of the adhesive member (700).

[0095] Based on the optical axis direction (Z), the thickness (B) of the upper surface (710) may be 0.1 mm or more and 0.4 mm or less. If the thickness (B) of the upper surface (710) is less than 0.1 mm, the thickness of the adhesive member (700) in the formation area of ​​the upper surface (710) is insufficient, and the bonding strength between the first body (100) and the lens module (300) may decrease. If the thickness (B) of the upper surface (710) exceeds 0.4 mm, an excessive amount of adhesive is required to form the upper surface (710), and at the same time, there is a problem that optical axis alignment between the lens (320) and the image sensor (412) is not easy due to the increase in the thickness of the adhesive member (700) during the curing process of the adhesive member (700).

[0096] The adhesive member (700) may include a second region (740). The second region (740) may be positioned between the lower surface of the flange portion (350) and the second surface (135). Based on a cross-section parallel to the optical axis direction (Z), the adhesive member (700) may have a cross-section approximately “C” shaped by the upper surface portion (710), the side portion (720), and the second region (135). That is, the upper surface portion (710) and the side portion (720) may be mutually perpendicular, and the side portion (720) and the second region (135) may be mutually perpendicular. At least a portion of the second region (740) may be in contact with the side of the retainer (330). When the adhesive member (700) includes a second region (740), the lens module (300) has a bonding structure with the first body (100) on three different sides, and thus the bonding force between the first body (100) and the lens module (300) through the adhesive member (700) is increased.

[0097] The optical axis direction (Z) distance (C) between the lower surface of the flange portion (350) and the second surface (134), which is the placement area of ​​the second region (740), may be 0mm or more and 0.5mm or less. When the optical axis direction (Z) distance (C) between the lower surface of the flange portion (350) and the second surface (134) is 0mm, the lower surface of the flange portion (350) and the second surface (134) may come into contact, and in this case, the second region (740) may be omitted. When the optical axis direction (Z) distance (C) between the lower surface of the flange portion (350) and the second surface (134) exceeds 0.5mm, some of the adhesive may flow into the space within the camera module (10) during the formation process of the second region (740), and there is a problem that optical axis alignment between the lens (320) and the image sensor (412) is not easy.

[0098] Meanwhile, as described above, when the flange portion (350) is positioned on the side of the retainer (330), the space between the barrel (310) and the retainer (330) can be secured for the positioning area of ​​the connecting portion (520) of the heating element (500), thereby improving assembly within the camera module (10).

[0099] With reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the process of combining the first body (100) and the lens module (300) will be described. Referring to FIG. 7, the lens module (300) can be combined on the first body (100). In this case, the flange portion (350) of the lens module (300) can be placed on the second surface (134). Additionally, the side of the flange portion (350) and the inner surface of the first protrusion (133) can be spaced apart in a direction (X) perpendicular to the optical axis direction (Z). Afterward, as shown in FIG. 8, an adhesive for forming an adhesive member (700) can be applied. The adhesive can be applied to the upper surface of the flange portion (350) and between the side of the flange portion (350) and the inner surface of the first protrusion (133). Afterwards, optical axis alignment between the lens (320) of the lens module (300) and the image sensor (412) is performed before the adhesive is cured, and after the optical axis alignment and the curing of the adhesive, the upper surface (710), the side surface (720), the first region (730), and the second region (740) can be implemented in the set region, respectively.

[0100] In the foregoing, although all components constituting an embodiment of the present invention have been described as being combined or operating in combination, the present invention is not necessarily limited to such embodiments. That is, within the scope of the purpose of the present invention, all components may be selectively combined in one or more ways to operate. Furthermore, terms such as "include," "constitute," or "have" described above, unless specifically stated otherwise, mean that the relevant component may be inherent; thus, they should be interpreted as allowing for the inclusion of additional components rather than excluding other components. All terms, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, unless otherwise defined. Terms commonly used, such as those defined in advance, should be interpreted in accordance with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology and should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in the present invention.

[0101] The foregoing description is merely an illustrative explanation of the technical concept of the present invention, and those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will be able to make various modifications and variations within the scope of the essential characteristics of the present invention. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are intended to explain, not limit, the technical concept of the present invention, and the scope of the technical concept of the present invention is not limited by such embodiments. The scope of protection of the present invention shall be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical concepts within an equivalent scope shall be interpreted as being included within the scope of rights of the present invention.

Claims

1. A first body including a barrel portion having a hole formed on the inner side; A lens module having at least a portion coupled to the above hole and a flange portion disposed on the side; A substrate module including an image sensor facing the lens module in the optical axis direction; and It includes an adhesive member that combines the first body and the lens module, The above adhesive member comprises a camera module including an upper surface portion disposed on the upper surface of the flange portion and a side portion extending from the upper surface portion and disposed on the side of the flange portion.

2. In Paragraph 1, The upper surface of the barrel portion includes a first protrusion having a first surface formed on its upper surface, and a second protrusion disposed inside the first protrusion having a second surface formed on its upper surface. The above upper surface and the above side portion are each camera modules disposed inside the first protrusion.

3. In Paragraph 2, Based on the optical axis direction, the second surface is a camera module positioned below the first surface.

4. In Paragraph 2, The above adhesive member is a camera module comprising a second region disposed between the second surface and the lower surface of the flange portion.

5. In Paragraph 2, It includes a groove disposed between the first protrusion and the second protrusion, and A camera module positioned below the first surface and the second surface, with respect to the optical axis direction, where the bottom surface of the groove is positioned below.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above adhesive member is a camera module that extends from the bottom of the side portion and includes a first region disposed in the groove.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above upper surface is a camera module connected to the upper surface of the barrel portion.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above lens module is, barrel; A plurality of lenses disposed within the barrel above; and It includes a retainer that is coupled to the barrel and supports the outermost lens among the plurality of lenses, The above flange portion is a camera module protruding from the side of the retainer.

9. In Paragraph 8, It includes a heating element that provides heat to the outermost lens, and The above heating element is, A heating element coupled to the surface of the outermost lens above; A terminal portion connected to the above substrate module; and It includes a connecting part that connects the heating element and the terminal part, The above connection is a camera module in which at least a portion is disposed between the retainer and the barrel.

10. In Paragraph 2, A camera module in which the distance between the side of the flange portion and the inner surface of the first protrusion is 0.5 mm, based on a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

Images