Camera actuator and camera module comprising same

Abstract

An embodiment discloses a camera actuator comprising: a housing; a first lens assembly which moves in a first direction in the housing; a first ball part disposed between the first lens assembly and the housing; and a driving unit for driving the first lens assembly, wherein the first lens assembly includes a first rail part extending in the first direction and including at least one rail, the first ball part includes at least one ball that moves on the rail, the rail includes a first rail surface and a second rail surface on which the ball moves, and a first side surface disposed between the first rail surface and the second rail surface, and the first side surface has a first surface and a second rail surface which have different angles from each other with respect to the first direction.

Description

Camera actuator and camera module including the same

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

[0002] A camera is a device that captures subjects in photos or videos, and it is mounted on portable devices, drones, vehicles, etc. To improve image quality, camera modules may feature Image Stabilization (IS) to correct or prevent image shake caused by user movement, Auto Focusing (AF) to automatically adjust the distance between the image sensor and the lens to align the lens focal length, and Zooming to increase or decrease the magnification of distant subjects using a zoom lens.

[0003] In an AF actuator, the movement of lenses in each group is required for focus and magnification adjustment. A rail is placed inside the main barrel housing, allowing a ball to move between the lens assembly and the rail. As the ball moves between the lens assembly and the rail, the lens assembly can be driven inside the camera actuator. However, in a ball-type actuator, there is a problem where the ball between the rail of the lens assembly and the rail of the main barrel housing moves up along a shape with a draft angle at the end of the rail during the rolling or slipping process. In this case, problems may arise where resolution is degraded and abnormal behavior occurs due to unintended tilt and decentration of the optical system.

[0004] An embodiment provides a camera actuator capable of stabilizing the operation of a lens assembly and preventing abnormal behavior, and a camera module including the same.

[0005] In addition, a camera actuator capable of preventing degradation of resolution and a camera module including the same are provided.

[0006] In addition, a camera actuator capable of reducing the degree of injection deformation and a camera module including the same are provided.

[0007] The problem to be solved in the embodiments is not limited thereto, and may also include the purpose or effect that can be identified from the means of solving the problem or the form of implementation described below.

[0008] A camera actuator according to an embodiment comprises: a housing; a first lens assembly that moves along a first direction within the housing; a first ball portion disposed between the first lens assembly and the housing; and a driving portion that drives the first lens assembly, wherein the first lens assembly includes a first rail portion that extends in the first direction and includes at least one rail, and the first ball portion includes at least one ball that moves on the rail, and the rail includes a first rail surface and a second rail surface on which the ball moves, and a first side portion disposed between the first rail surface and the second rail surface, and the first side portion may include a first surface and a second surface that have different angles with respect to the first direction.

[0009] The first lens assembly includes at least one lens, and the distance between the first surface and the second direction perpendicular to the first direction of the lens may be greater than the distance between the second surface and the second direction of the lens.

[0010] The angle that the first surface makes with the first direction may be greater than the angle that the second surface makes with the first direction.

[0011] The point where the first surface and the second surface meet may be spaced a certain distance in the second direction from the center of the ball.

[0012] The point where the first surface and the second surface meet may be positioned adjacent to the lens with respect to the second direction rather than the center of the ball.

[0013] The distance in the second direction from the point where the first rail surface and the second rail surface meet to the point where the first surface and the second surface meet may be smaller than the distance in the second direction from the point where the first rail surface and the second rail surface meet to the center of the ball.

[0014] The first angle formed by the first surface with the second direction may be smaller than the second angle formed by the second surface with the second direction.

[0015] The above first angle and the above second angle can satisfy Equation 1.

[0016] [Mathematical Formula 1]

[0017]

[0018] Here, θ1 is the first angle, θ2 is the second angle, a is the distance in the second direction from the center of the ball to the point where the first surface and the second surface meet, b is the distance in the second direction from the center of the ball to the point where the ball and the first surface meet, and r may be the radius of the ball.

[0019] The rail is disposed between the first rail surface and the second rail surface and includes a second side spaced apart from the first side in a first direction, and the second side may include a third surface and a fourth surface bent from the third surface.

[0020] The angle formed by the third surface with the second direction is smaller than the angle formed by the fourth surface with the second direction, the third surface overlaps with the first surface in the first direction, and the fourth surface overlaps with the second surface in the first direction.

[0021] The distance between the third surface and the first surface in the first direction may be greater than the distance between the fourth surface and the second surface in the first direction.

[0022] The above housing includes a first housing rail that faces the rail and contacts the first ball portion, and the width in the first direction of the rail may increase as it becomes adjacent to the first housing rail.

[0023] The above first rail section may include a first rail, a second rail, and a third rail spaced apart from each other in a first direction.

[0024] The first lens assembly may include a second rail portion spaced apart from the first rail portion in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0025] According to an embodiment, the embodiment can provide a camera actuator capable of stabilizing the operation of a lens assembly and preventing abnormal behavior, and a camera module including the same.

[0026] In addition, a camera actuator capable of preventing degradation of resolution and a camera module including the same can be provided.

[0027] In addition, a camera actuator capable of reducing the degree of injection deformation and a camera module including the same can be provided.

[0028] The various and beneficial advantages and effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above and may be more easily understood in the process of explaining specific embodiments of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, and

[0030] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, and

[0031] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module cut along AA' in FIG. 1, and

[0032] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and

[0033] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a camera actuator cut at BB' in FIG. 4, and

[0034] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a camera actuator cut along CC' in FIG. 4, and

[0035] FIG. 7 is a side view of a lens assembly of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and

[0036] FIG. 8 is a front view of a lens assembly of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and

[0037] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a rail portion of a lens assembly of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and

[0038] FIG. 10 is a magnified view of section A in FIG. 9, and

[0039] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining the rail portion and the ball of the lens assembly of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and

[0040] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal with a camera module applied according to an embodiment, and

[0041] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a vehicle with a camera module applied according to an embodiment.

[0042] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0043] 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.

[0044] In addition, terms used in the embodiments of the present invention (including technical and scientific terms) may be interpreted in a sense 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] These terms are intended merely to distinguish a component from other components and are not limited by the nature, order, sequence, etc., of the said component.

[0049] And, where it is stated that a component is 'connected', 'combined', or 'joined' to another component, this may include not only cases where the component is directly connected, combined, or joined to the other component, but also cases where it is 'connected', 'combined', or 'joined' due to another component located between the component and the other component.

[0050] 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.

[0051] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module cut at AA' in FIG. 1.

[0052] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a camera module (1000) according to an embodiment may consist of a cover (CV), a first camera actuator (1100), a second camera actuator (1200), and a circuit board (1300). Here, the first camera actuator (1100) may be used as the first actuator, and the second camera actuator (1200) may be used as the second actuator.

[0053] The cover (CV) can cover the first camera actuator (1100) and the second camera actuator (1200). The coupling force between the first camera actuator (1100) and the second camera actuator (1200) can be improved by the cover (CV).

[0054] Furthermore, the cover (CV) may be made of a material that performs electromagnetic shielding. Accordingly, the first camera actuator (1100) and the second camera actuator (1200) inside the cover (CV) can be easily protected.

[0055] And the first camera actuator (1100) may be an OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) actuator. For example, the first camera actuator (1100) may move an optical member in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0056] The first camera actuator (1100) may include a fixed focal length lens disposed in a predetermined barrel (not shown). The fixed focal length lens may also be referred to as a “single focal length lens” or a “single lens.”

[0057] The first camera actuator (1100) can change the path of light. In an embodiment, the first camera actuator (1100) can change the path of light vertically through an internal optical element (e.g., a prism or a mirror). With this configuration, even if the thickness of the mobile terminal is reduced, a lens configuration larger than the thickness of the mobile terminal can be placed within the mobile terminal through the change of the path of light so that magnification, autofocus (AF), and OIS functions can be performed.

[0058] However, it is not limited to this, and the first camera actuator (1100) can change the light path multiple times vertically or at a predetermined angle.

[0059] The second camera actuator (1200) may be positioned at the rear end of the first camera actuator (1100). The second camera actuator (1200) may be coupled with the first camera actuator (1100). And the coupling between them may be achieved in various ways.

[0060] Additionally, the second camera actuator (1200) may be a zoom actuator or an AF (Auto Focus) actuator. For example, the second camera actuator (1200) may support one or more lenses and move the lenses according to a control signal from a predetermined control unit to perform an auto-focusing function or a zoom function. Also, one or more lenses may move independently or individually along the optical axis direction to perform AF.

[0061] A circuit board (1300) may be positioned at the rear end of a second camera actuator (1200). The circuit board (1300) may be electrically connected to the second camera actuator (1200) and the first camera actuator (1100). Additionally, there may be multiple circuit boards (1300). The circuit board (1300) may include an image sensor (IS) and may be fixed inside a camera module (1000). Additionally, the circuit board (1300) may be electrically connected to another sensor module within the terminal or to a processor of the terminal. Through this, the aforementioned camera actuator and the camera module including it can transmit and receive various signals within the terminal. The circuit board (1300) may include a circuit board having a wiring pattern that can be electrically connected, such as a rigid printed circuit board (Rigid PCB), a flexible printed circuit board (Flexible PCB), or a rigid-flexible printed circuit board (Rigid Flexible PCB). However, it is not limited to these types.

[0062] The camera module according to the embodiment may consist of a single or multiple camera modules. For example, the multiple camera modules may include a first camera module and a second camera module.

[0063] And the first camera module may include a single or multiple actuators. For example, the first camera module may include a first camera actuator (1100) and a second camera actuator (1200).

[0064] The second camera module may be disposed in a predetermined housing (not shown) and may include an actuator (not shown) capable of driving a lens portion. The actuator may be a voice coil motor, a micro actuator, a silicon actuator, etc., and may be applied in various ways such as electrostatic, thermal, bimorphic, and electrostatic force methods, but is not limited thereto. In addition, in this specification, the camera actuator may be referred to as an actuator, etc. Furthermore, a camera module composed of a plurality of camera modules may be mounted in various electronic devices such as mobile terminals.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 3, the camera module according to the embodiment may include a first camera actuator (1100) that performs an OIS function and a second camera actuator (1200) that performs a zooming function and an AF function.

[0066] Light can be incident into a camera module or the first camera actuator through an opening region located on the upper surface of the first camera actuator (1100). That is, light is incident into the interior of the first camera actuator (1100) along the optical axis direction (e.g., Z-axis direction), and the optical path can be changed in a vertical direction (e.g., Y-axis direction) through an optical member. Then, light passes through the second camera actuator (1200) and can be incident on an image sensor (IS) located at one end of the second camera actuator (1200) (PATH).

[0067] In this specification, the bottom surface refers to one side in the first direction. The first direction is the Z-axis direction in the drawing and may be used interchangeably with the first axis direction, etc. The second direction is the X-axis direction in the drawing and may be used interchangeably with the second axis direction, etc. The second direction is a direction perpendicular to the first direction. Additionally, the third direction is the Y-axis direction in the drawing and may be a direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction. Here, the first direction (Z-axis direction) corresponds to the optical axis direction, and the second direction (X-axis direction) and the third direction (Y-axis direction) are directions perpendicular to the optical axis and may be tilted by the first camera actuator. The first direction is a direction perpendicular to the surface of the prism where light is incident, and the second direction may be a direction parallel to the surface of the prism where light is emitted. The third direction may be a direction perpendicular to the surface of the prism where light is emitted.

[0068] Additionally, in this specification, the inner side may be the direction toward the first camera actuator from the cover (CV), and the outer side may be the opposite direction of the inner side. That is, the first camera actuator and the second camera actuator may be located on the inner side of the cover (CV), and the cover (CV) may be located on the outer side of the first camera actuator or the second camera actuator. Additionally, in this specification, the inner side may be the direction toward the first or second camera actuator from the bracket or shield can to be described later, and the outer side may be the opposite direction of the inner side.

[0069] And by this configuration, the camera module according to the embodiment can improve the spatial limitations of the first camera actuator and the second camera actuator by changing the light path. That is, the camera module according to the embodiment can expand the light path while minimizing the thickness of the camera module in response to the change in the light path. Furthermore, it should be understood that the second camera actuator can provide a high range of magnification by controlling focus, etc., in the expanded light path.

[0070] In addition, the camera module according to the embodiment can implement OIS by controlling the optical path through the first camera actuator, thereby minimizing the occurrence of decent or tilt phenomena and producing optimal optical characteristics.

[0071] Furthermore, the second camera actuator (1200) may include an optical system and a lens driving unit. For example, at least one of the first lens assembly, the second lens assembly, the third lens assembly, and the guide pin may be disposed in the second camera actuator (1200). Additionally, the second camera actuator (1200) may be equipped with a coil and a magnet to perform a high-magnification zooming function.

[0072] For example, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly may be moving lenses that move via coils, magnets, and guide pins, and the third lens assembly may be a fixed lens, but is not limited thereto. For example, the third lens assembly may perform the function of a focuser that forms an image of light at a specific location, and the first lens assembly may perform the function of a variationator that re-forms the image formed by the third lens assembly (focuser) at a different location. Meanwhile, the first lens assembly may be in a state where the magnification changes significantly due to a large change in the distance to the subject or the image distance, and the first lens assembly (variator) may play an important role in the change of focal length or magnification of the optical system. On the other hand, the image formed by the first lens assembly (variator) may differ slightly depending on the location. Accordingly, the second lens assembly may perform a position compensation function for the image formed by the variationator. For example, the second lens assembly can perform the function of a compensator that accurately forms the image formed by the first lens assembly (which acts as a transducer) at the actual image sensor location. For example, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly can be driven by electromagnetic force resulting from the interaction between a coil and a magnet. The above description may be applied to the lens assembly described below. Furthermore, the first to third lens assemblies can move along the optical axis direction, that is, the first direction. Additionally, the first to third lens assemblies can move in the third direction independently or dependently of each other.

[0073] Meanwhile, according to an embodiment of the present invention, when an actuator for OIS and an actuator for AF or Zoom are arranged, magnetic field interference with the magnet for AF or Zoom can be prevented during OIS operation. Since the first driving magnet of the first camera actuator (1100) is arranged separately from the second camera actuator (1200), magnetic field interference between the first camera actuator (1100) and the second camera actuator (1200) can be prevented. In this specification, OIS may be used interchangeably with terms such as hand shake correction, optical image stabilization, optical image correction, and shake correction.

[0074] In the following description of FIGS. 4 to 11, the camera actuator may correspond to the second camera actuator in the camera module of FIGS. 1 to 3. That is, in the following description of FIGS. 4 to 11, the camera actuator may correspond to the AF actuator.

[0075] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the camera actuator cut along BB' in FIG. 4, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the camera actuator cut along CC' in FIG. 4.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the camera actuator (1200) may include a housing (1210), a first lens assembly (1220), a second lens assembly (1230), a driving part (1240), a stopper (S), a ball part (B), and a cover member (1250).

[0077] The housing (1210) may form the outer wall of the camera actuator (1200). A cover member (1250) may be disposed on one side of the housing (1210). A first lens assembly (1220), a second lens assembly (1230), a driving unit (1240), a stopper (S), and a cover member (1250) may be disposed inside the housing (1210). A driving unit (1240) may be disposed on a side parallel to the third direction of the housing (1210). A side perpendicular to the third direction of the housing (1210) may include an opening. A substrate may be disposed on the outside of the housing (1210).

[0078] The housing (1210) may include a plurality of housing rails. The housing (1210) may include first to fourth housing rails (1211, 1212, 1213, 1214). The first to fourth housing rails (1211, 1212, 1213, 1214) may serve as a path for the ball portion (B) to move. The first to fourth housing rails (1211, 1212, 1213, 1214) may be disposed inside the housing (1210) and may extend in a first direction. The first housing rail (1211) and the second housing rail (1212) may be disposed adjacent to the first lens assembly (1220). The first housing rail (1211) and the second housing rail (1212) may be disposed spaced apart in a third direction. A first ball portion (B1) and a second ball portion (B2) may be disposed on the first housing rail (1211) and the second housing rail (1212), respectively. The first housing rail (1211) may face the first rail portion (R1), and the second housing rail (1212) may face the second rail portion (R2). The third housing rail (1213) and the fourth housing rail (1214) may be disposed adjacent to the second lens assembly (1230). The third housing rail (1213) and the fourth housing rail (1214) may be disposed spaced apart in a third direction. A third ball portion (B3) and a fourth ball portion (B4) may be disposed on the third housing rail (1213) and the fourth housing rail (1214), respectively. The third housing rail (1213) may face the third rail section (R3), and the fourth housing rail (1214) may face the fourth rail section (R4). The first housing rail (1211) may overlap with the third housing rail (1213) in a second direction, and the second housing rail (1212) may overlap with the fourth housing rail (1214) in a second direction. The first to fourth housing rails (1211, 1212, 1213, 1214) may each include a surface that contacts a ball.The surface in contact with the ball of the first to fourth housing rails (1211, 1212, 1213, 1214) may include a plurality of inclined surfaces or a single horizontal surface.

[0079] The first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230) may be moving lenses that move via a coil, a magnet, and a guide pin. The second lens assembly (1230) may perform the function of a variationator that re-images the image formed by focusing light to another location. Meanwhile, the second lens assembly (1230) may be in a state where the magnification change is large because the distance to the subject or the image distance has changed significantly, and the second lens assembly (1230), which acts as a variationator, may play an important role in the change of focal length or magnification of the optical system. Meanwhile, the image formed by the second lens assembly (1230), which acts as a variationator, may differ slightly depending on the location. Accordingly, the first lens assembly (1220) may perform a position compensation function for the image formed by the variationator. For example, the first lens assembly (1220) can perform the function of a compensator that accurately forms an image formed by the second lens assembly (1230), which is a variable lens, at the actual image sensor location. For example, the first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230) can be driven by electromagnetic force resulting from the interaction between a coil and a magnet.

[0080] The first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230) may be placed inside the housing (1210). The first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230) may be moved inside the housing (1210) along the optical axis direction by the driving unit (1240). The first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230) may be placed spaced apart from each other along the optical axis direction. The first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230) may partially overlap with the stopper (S) in the optical axis direction. The first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230) may partially overlap with the cover member (1250) in the optical axis direction. The first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230) may be driven by the driving unit (1240). Magnets may be disposed in the first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230). The first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230) may each include a plurality of rails. A ball (B) may be disposed on the rails of the first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230).

[0081] The driving unit (1240) can drive the camera actuator (1200). The driving unit (1240) can move the lens assembly in a first direction. The driving unit (1240) may include a substrate (1241), first to fourth coils (1242a, 1242b, 1242c, 1242d), a first magnet (1243a), a second magnet (1243b), and a sensor unit (1244). The substrate (1241) may be placed on the outside of the housing (1210). The substrate (1241) can supply the current required to drive the camera actuator (1200). The substrate (1241) may be placed on the side of the housing (1210). A first to fourth coil (1242a, 1242b, 1242c, 1242d) and a sensor unit (1244) may be disposed on the substrate (1241). The substrate (1241) may include a first to third sub-substrate (1241a, 1241b, 1241c). The first sub-substrate (1241a) may be disposed adjacent to the first lens assembly (1220), and the second sub-substrate (1241b) may be disposed adjacent to the second lens assembly (1230). The third sub-substrate (1241c) may be disposed between the first sub-substrate (1241a) and the second sub-substrate (1241b) to connect the first sub-substrate (1241a) and the second sub-substrate (1241b). The first sub-substrate (1241a) and the second sub-substrate (1241b) may be arranged perpendicular to the second direction, and the third sub-substrate (1241c) may be arranged perpendicular to the third direction.

[0082] The first to fourth coils (1242a, 1242b, 1242c, 1242d) can move the lens assembly in a first direction through interaction with the magnet. The first coil (1242a) and the second coil (1242b) are positioned adjacent to the first lens assembly (1220) to drive the first lens assembly (1220). The first coil (1242a) and the second coil (1242b) may be placed on the first sub-substrate (1241a). The first coil (1242a) and the second coil (1242b) may be positioned spaced apart in the first direction. The first coil (1242a) and the second coil (1242b) are positioned adjacent to the first magnet (1243a) to apply electromagnetic force to the first magnet (1243a). The third coil (1242c) and the fourth coil (1242d) are positioned adjacent to the second lens assembly (1230) to drive the second lens assembly (1230). The third coil (1242c) and the fourth coil (1242d) may be positioned on the second sub-substrate (1241b). The third coil (1242c) and the fourth coil (1242d) may be positioned spaced apart in a first direction. The third coil (1242c) and the fourth coil (1242d) are positioned adjacent to the second magnet (1243b) to apply electromagnetic force to the second magnet (1243b). The first coil (1242a) may overlap with the third coil (1242c) in a second direction, and the second coil (1242b) may overlap with the fourth coil (1242d) in a second direction.

[0083] The first magnet (1243a) and the second magnet (1243b) may be placed on the first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230), respectively. The first magnet (1243a) may be placed on the side of the first lens assembly (1220) between the first rail portion (R1) and the second rail portion (R2). The first magnet (1243a) may be attached to the first lens assembly (1220) through a magnet yoke. The first magnet (1243a) may receive electromagnetic force in a first direction from the first coil (1242a) and the second coil (1242b) and apply driving force to the first lens assembly (1220). The second magnet (1243b) may be positioned on the side of the second lens assembly (1230) between the third rail portion (R3) and the fourth rail portion (R4). The second magnet (1243b) may be attached to the second lens assembly (1230) through a magnet yoke. The second magnet (1243b) may receive electromagnetic force in a first direction from the third coil (1242c) and the fourth coil (1242d) and apply driving force to the second lens assembly (1230).

[0084] The sensor unit (1244) can sense AF driving of the camera actuator (1200). The sensor unit (1244) may be placed inside the substrate (1241). The sensor unit (1244) may include a plurality of sensors. The sensor unit (1244) may be placed in an inner hole of the coil.

[0085] The stopper (S) can prevent the lens assembly from colliding with the housing while moving. The stopper (S) may be positioned on the inner side of the housing (1210) and the cover member (1250). The stopper (S) may overlap with the first lens assembly (1220) and the second lens assembly (1230) in a first direction. The stopper (S) may include at least one stopper. The stopper (S) may be located at the end of the movement stroke of the lens assembly.

[0086] The ball portion (B) may be positioned between the lens assembly and the housing (1210). The ball portion (B) may move between the lens assembly and the housing (1210) to drive the lens assembly. The ball portion (B) may be positioned between the rail of the lens assembly and the housing rail of the housing (1210). The ball portion (B) may include a plurality of balls. The ball portion (B) may include first to fourth ball portions (B1, B2, B3, B4). Each of the first to fourth ball portions (B1, B2, B3, B4) may include at least one ball. The first ball portion (B1) and the second ball portion (B2) may be positioned on the first lens assembly (1220). A first ball portion (B1) may be positioned between a first rail portion (R1) and a first housing rail (1211), and a second ball portion (B2) may be positioned between a second rail portion (R2) and a second housing rail (1212). A third ball portion (B3) and a fourth ball portion (B4) may be positioned on a second lens assembly (1230). A third ball portion (B3) may be positioned between a third rail portion (R3) and a third housing rail (1213), and a fourth ball portion (B4) may be positioned between a fourth rail portion (R4) and a fourth housing rail (1214).

[0087] The cover member (1250) can improve adhesion by widening the adhesion area between camera actuators. The cover member (1250) may be placed on one side of the housing (1210). The cover member (1250) may be placed on the light-incident surface of the housing (1210). The cover member (1250) may be placed perpendicular to the first direction. The cover member (1250) may overlap with the lens assembly in the first direction. The cover member (1250) may include an opening through which light is incident. A stopper may be placed on the cover member (1250).

[0088] FIG. 7 is a side view of a lens assembly of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, FIG. 8 is a front view of a lens assembly of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a rail portion of a lens assembly of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and FIG. 10 is a magnified view of portion A in FIG. 9.

[0089] Referring to FIGS. 7 through 10, the first lens assembly (1220) may include a first rail portion (R1) and a second rail portion (R2). A ball portion (B) may be disposed in the first rail portion (R1) and the second rail portion (R2). The first rail portion (R1) and the second rail portion (R2) may extend in a first direction. A first ball portion (B1) may be disposed in the first rail portion (R1), and a second ball portion (B2) may be disposed in the second rail portion (R2). The first rail portion (R1) and the second rail portion (R2) may be spaced apart in a third direction. The first rail portion (R1) may face the first housing rail (1211), and the second rail portion (R2) may face the second housing rail (1212). The first ball portion (B1) is positioned between the first rail portion (R1) and the first housing rail (1211), and the second ball portion (B2) can be positioned between the second rail portion (R2) and the second housing rail (1212).

[0090] The first rail section (R1) and the second rail section (R2) may each include at least one rail. The first rail section (R1) may include a first rail (r1), a second rail (r2), and a third rail (r3). The first rail (r1), the second rail (r2), and the third rail (r3) may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction. The second rail (r2) may be positioned between the first rail (r1) and the third rail (r3). The first rail (r1), the second rail (r2), and the third rail (r3) may each extend in the first direction. Additionally, a plurality of balls of the first ball section (B1) may each be positioned on the first rail (r1), the second rail (r2), and the third rail (r3). The second rail section (R2) may include a fourth rail (r4), a fifth rail (r5), and a sixth rail (r6). The fourth rail (r4), the fifth rail (r5), and the sixth rail (r6) may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction. The fifth rail (r5) may be positioned between the fourth rail (r4) and the sixth rail (r6). The fourth rail (r4), the fifth rail (r5), and the sixth rail (r6) may each extend in the first direction. Additionally, a plurality of balls of the second ball portion (B2) may be positioned on the fourth rail (r4), the fifth rail (r5), and the sixth rail (r6), respectively.

[0091] The first rail (r1) may include a first rail surface (S1), a second rail surface (S2), a first side (P1), and a second side (P2). The first rail surface (S1) and the second rail surface (S2) may be surfaces on which a ball moves. At least one ball of the first ball portion (B1) may be placed on the first rail surface (S1) and the second rail surface (S2). The ball of the first ball portion (B1) may come into contact with the first rail surface (S1) and the second rail surface (S2). The first ball portion (B1) may move on the first rail (r1) while in contact with the first rail surface (S1) and the second rail surface (S2). The first rail surface (S1) and the second rail surface (S2) may form a certain angle. The first rail surface (S1) and the second rail surface (S2) may each form a certain angle with a third direction. Accordingly, the first rail surface (S1) and the second rail surface (S2) can form an inclined surface to support the first ball portion (B1) in the second direction. The first rail surface (S1) and the second rail surface (S2) can be extended in the first direction. The spacing between the first rail surface (S1) and the second rail surface (S2) can increase as they are adjacent to the first housing rail (1211). Accordingly, the width of the first rail (r1) in the third direction can increase as it is adjacent to the first housing rail (1211).

[0092] The first side (P1) and the second side (P2) may be positioned between the first rail surface (S1) and the second rail surface (S2). The first side (P1) and the second side (P2) may be positioned at both ends of the first rail (r1). The first side (P1) and the second side (P2) may be positioned spaced apart in the first direction. As the ball of the first ball portion (B1) moves on the first rail (r1), it may come into contact with the first side (P1) or the second side (P2). When the ball of the first ball portion (B1) is located at the top of the first rail (r1), it may come into contact with the first side (P1), and when it is located at the bottom, it may come into contact with the second side (P2).

[0093] The first side (P1) may include a plurality of surfaces. The first side (P1) may include a first surface (p1) and a second surface (p2). The first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2) may be in contact with each other. The first surface (p1) may be positioned on the top of the second surface (p2). That is, the first surface (p1) may be positioned spaced apart from the lens of the first lens assembly (1220) than the second surface (p2). The distance between the first surface (p1) and the lens of the first lens assembly (1220) in the second direction may be greater than the distance between the second surface (p2) and the lens of the first lens assembly (1220) in the second direction. Additionally, the first surface (p1) may be adjacent to the first housing rail (1211) than the second surface (p2). That is, the distance between the first surface (p1) and the first housing rail (1211) in the second direction may be smaller than the distance between the second surface (p2) and the first housing rail (1211) in the second direction.

[0094] The first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2) may form a certain angle with each other. That is, the angle formed by the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2) with the first direction may be different. Additionally, the angle formed by the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2) with the second direction may be different. Accordingly, the first surface (P1) may include a bending structure between the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2). The second surface (p2) may be bent from the first surface (p1). The angle formed by the first surface (p1) with the first direction may be greater than the angle formed by the second surface (p2) with the first direction. Additionally, the angle formed by the first surface (p1) with the second direction may be smaller than the angle formed by the second surface (p2) with the second direction. The first angle (θ1) formed by the first surface (p1) with the second direction may be smaller than the second angle (θ2) formed by the second surface (p2) with the second direction. Accordingly, the second surface (p2) may form a gentler slope than the first surface (p1). Therefore, when a ball collides with the end of the rail, it may collide twice with the sloped surfaces at different angles, and the force received in the second direction can be minimized, thereby preventing the ball from derailing from the rail and abnormal behavior. In addition, injection problems such as tearing can be minimized during the mold transfer process of the lens assembly.

[0095] The second side (P2) may include a plurality of surfaces. The second side (P2) may include a third surface (p3) and a fourth surface (p4). The third surface (p3) and the fourth surface (p4) may be in contact with each other. The third surface (p3) may be positioned on the top of the fourth surface (p4). That is, the third surface (p3) may be positioned further apart from the lens of the first lens assembly (1220) than the fourth surface (p4). The distance between the third surface (p3) and the lens of the first lens assembly (1220) in the second direction may be greater than the distance between the fourth surface (p4) and the lens of the first lens assembly (1220) in the second direction. Additionally, the third surface (p3) may be closer to the first housing rail (1211) than the fourth surface (p4). That is, the distance between the third surface (p3) and the first housing rail (1211) in the second direction may be smaller than the distance between the fourth surface (p4) and the first housing rail (1211) in the second direction.

[0096] The third surface (p3) and the fourth surface (p4) may form a certain angle with each other. That is, the angle formed by the third surface (p3) and the fourth surface (p4) with the first direction may be different. Additionally, the angle formed by the third surface (p3) and the fourth surface (p4) with the second direction may be different. Accordingly, the second surface (P2) may include a bending structure between the third surface (p3) and the fourth surface (p4). The fourth surface (p4) may be bent from the third surface (p3). The angle formed by the third surface (p3) with the first direction may be greater than the angle formed by the fourth surface (p4) with the first direction. Additionally, the angle formed by the third surface (p3) with the second direction may be smaller than the angle formed by the fourth surface (p4) with the first direction. Accordingly, the fourth surface (p4) may form a gentler slope than the third surface (p3). Therefore, when the ball collides with the end of the rail, it can collide twice with inclined surfaces at different angles, and the force received in the second direction can be minimized, thereby preventing the ball from derailing from the rail and abnormal behavior. In addition, injection problems such as tearing can be minimized during the mold transfer process of the lens assembly.

[0097] The third surface (p3) may overlap with the first surface (p1) in the first direction. Additionally, the fourth surface (p4) may overlap with the second surface (p2) in the first direction. The distance between the third surface (p3) and the first surface (p1) in the first direction may be greater than the distance between the fourth surface (p4) and the second surface (p2) in the first direction. That is, the width of the first rail (r1) in the first direction may increase as it gets closer to the first housing rail (1211).

[0098] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining the rail portion and ball of the lens assembly of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 7 through 11, the point where the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2) meet may be spaced a certain distance (a) in the second direction from the center of the ball (B1). In FIG. 11, the ball (B1) may be one of a plurality of balls included in the first ball portion (B1) of FIG. 7. The point where the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2) meet may be positioned lower than the center of the ball (B1) with respect to the second direction. The point where the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2) meet may be positioned adjacent to the lens of the first lens assembly (1220) with respect to the second direction from the center of the ball (B1). Additionally, the point where the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2) meet may be positioned spaced apart from the first housing rail (1211) with respect to the second direction from the center of the ball (B1). That is, the distance in the second direction from the point where the first rail surface (S1) and the second rail surface (S2) meet to the point where the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2) meet may be smaller than the distance in the second direction from the point where the first rail surface (S1) and the second rail surface (S2) meet to the center of the ball (B1).

[0100] The first angle (θ1) and the second angle (θ2) can satisfy Equation 1.

[0101]

[0102] Here, θ1 is the first angle, θ2 is the second angle, a is the distance in the second direction between the center of the ball (B1) and the contact point of the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2), b is the distance in the second direction between the center of the ball (B1) and the contact point of the ball (B1) and the first surface (p1), and r may be the radius of the ball.

[0103] FIG. 11 illustrates the case where the ball (B1) comes into contact with the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2). In this case, it illustrates the case where the second angle (θ2) of the second surface (p2) is at its maximum.

[0104] In Fig. 11, the third angle (α) can satisfy Equation 2.

[0105]

[0106] Here, α can be the third angle, θ1 can be the first angle, and θ2 can be the second angle.

[0107] In FIG. 11, the distance between the contact point of the ball (B1) and the first surface (p1) and the contact point of the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2) can satisfy Equation 3.

[0108]

[0109] Here, L is the distance between the contact point of the ball (B1) and the first surface (p1) and the contact point of the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2), r is the radius of the ball (B1), θ1 is the first angle, and θ2 may be the second angle.

[0110] In addition, the distance in the second direction between the contact point of the ball (B1) and the first surface (p1) and the contact point of the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2) can satisfy Equation 4.

[0111]

[0112] Here, c is the distance in the second direction between the contact point of the ball (B1) and the first surface (p1) and the contact point of the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2), L is the distance between the contact point of the ball (B1) and the first surface (p1) and the contact point of the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2), r is the radius of the ball (B1), θ1 is the first angle, and θ2 may be the second angle.

[0113] Additionally, the distance (b) in the second direction between the center of the ball (B1) and the contact point between the ball (B1) and the first surface (p1) may be the value (ac) obtained by subtracting the distance (c) in the second direction between the contact point between the ball (B1) and the first surface (p1) and the contact point between the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2) from the distance (a) in the second direction between the center of the ball (B1) and the contact point between the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2).

[0114] Ultimately, the maximum value of the second angle (θ2) can satisfy Equation 5.

[0115]

[0116] Here, θ1 is the first angle, and θ 2max is the maximum value of the second angle, a is the distance in the second direction between the center of the ball (B1) and the contact point of the first surface (p1) and the second surface (p2), b is the distance in the second direction between the center of the ball (B1) and the contact point of the ball (B1) and the first surface (p1), and r may be the radius of the ball.

[0117] In the description of FIGS. 8 to 11 above, the description of the first rail (r1) may also be applied to the second to sixth rails (r2, r3, r4, r5, r6). Any content in the description of the second to sixth rails (r2, r3, r4, r5, r6) that overlaps with the description of the first rail (r1) shall be omitted. Additionally, in the description of FIGS. 7 to 11, the description of the first lens assembly (1220) may also be applied to the second lens assembly (1230). Any content in the description of the second lens assembly (1230) that overlaps with the description of the first lens assembly (1220) shall be omitted.

[0118] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal with a camera module applied according to an embodiment.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 12, the mobile terminal of the embodiment may include a camera module (1000), a flash module (1510), and an autofocus device (1530) provided on the rear.

[0120] The camera module (1000) may include an image capturing function and an autofocus function. For example, the camera module (1000) may include an autofocus function using an image.

[0121] The camera module (1000) processes still image or video frame obtained by the image sensor in shooting mode or video call mode.

[0122] The processed image frame may be displayed on a designated display unit and stored in memory. A camera (not shown) may also be placed on the front of the mobile terminal body.

[0123] For example, the camera module (1000) may include a first camera module and a second camera module, and the first camera module may enable the implementation of AF or zoom functions along with OIS. Additionally, AF, zoom, and OIS functions may be performed by the second camera module. In this case, since the first camera module includes both the OIS actuator and the camera actuator described above, the camera module can be easily miniaturized by changing the light path.

[0124] The flash module (1510) may include a light-emitting element that emits light inside. The flash module (1510) may be operated by the operation of the camera of the mobile terminal or by the control of the user.

[0125] The autofocus device (1530) may include one of the surface light-emitting laser element packages as a light-emitting part.

[0126] The autofocus device (1530) may include an autofocus function using a laser. The autofocus device (1530) may be mainly used in conditions where the autofocus function using the image of the camera module (1000) is degraded, such as in a close distance of 10m or less or in a dark environment.

[0127] The autofocus device (1530) may include a light-emitting part comprising a vertical cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) semiconductor device and a light-receiving part that converts light energy into electrical energy, such as a photodiode.

[0128] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a vehicle with a camera module applied according to an embodiment.

[0129] For example, FIG. 13 is an exterior view of a vehicle equipped with a vehicle driving assistance device having a camera module according to an embodiment.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 13, the vehicle (700) of the embodiment may be equipped with wheels (13FL, 13FR) that rotate by a power source and a predetermined sensor. The sensor may be a camera sensor (3000), but is not limited thereto.

[0131] The camera sensor (3000) may be a camera sensor to which a camera module according to the embodiment is applied. The vehicle (700) of the embodiment can acquire image information through the camera sensor (3000) that captures a front image or a surrounding image, and can determine a situation where a lane is not identified using the image information and generate a virtual lane when it is not identified.

[0132] For example, a camera sensor (3000) captures the front of a vehicle (700) to obtain a front image, and a processor (not shown) can obtain image information by analyzing objects included in the front image.

[0133] For example, if objects such as a median strip, curb, or roadside tree corresponding to a lane, adjacent vehicle, driving obstruction, and indirect road marking are captured in an image captured by the camera sensor (3000), the processor can detect these objects and include them in the image information. At this time, the processor can obtain distance information with respect to the objects detected through the camera sensor (3000) to further supplement the image information.

[0134] The image information may be information about an object captured in the image. Such a camera sensor (3000) may include an image sensor and an image processing module.

[0135] The camera sensor (3000) can process still images or videos obtained by an image sensor (e.g., CMOS or CCD).

[0136] The image processing module can process still images or videos acquired through an image sensor to extract necessary information and transmit the extracted information to a processor.

[0137] At this time, the camera sensor (3000) may include a stereo camera to improve the measurement accuracy of the object and to obtain more information such as the distance between the vehicle (700) and the object, but is not limited thereto.

[0138] Although the invention has been described above with reference to embodiments, this is merely illustrative and does not limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible within the scope of the essential characteristics of the embodiments. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments may be modified and implemented. Furthermore, differences related to such modifications and applications should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. Housing; A first lens assembly that moves along a first direction within the above housing; A first ball portion disposed between the first lens assembly and the housing; and It includes a driving unit that drives the first lens assembly, and The first lens assembly includes a first rail portion that extends in the first direction and includes at least one rail, and The first ball portion comprises at least one ball that moves on the rail, and The above rail includes a first rail surface and a second rail surface on which the ball moves, and a first side surface disposed between the first rail surface and the second rail surface. The above-mentioned first side is a camera actuator comprising a first surface and a second surface having different angles formed with the above-mentioned first direction.

2. In Paragraph 1, The first lens assembly includes at least one lens, and A camera actuator in which the separation distance between the first surface and the second direction perpendicular to the first direction of the lens is greater than the separation distance between the second surface and the second direction of the lens.

3. In Paragraph 2, A camera actuator in which the angle formed by the first surface with the first direction is greater than the angle formed by the second surface with the first direction.

4. In Paragraph 3, The point where the first surface and the second surface meet is a camera actuator spaced a certain distance in the second direction from the center of the ball.

5. In Paragraph 4, A camera actuator positioned adjacent to the lens with respect to the second direction rather than the center of the ball at the point where the first surface and the second surface meet.

6. In Paragraph 4, A camera actuator in which the distance in the second direction from the point where the first rail surface and the second rail surface meet to the point where the first surface and the second surface meet is smaller than the distance in the second direction from the point where the first rail surface and the second rail surface meet to the center of the ball.

7. In Paragraph 2, A camera actuator in which the first angle formed by the first surface with the second direction is smaller than the second angle formed by the second surface with the second direction.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above first angle and the above second angle are camera actuators satisfying mathematical formula 1. [Mathematical Formula 1] (Here, θ1 is the first angle, θ2 is the second angle, a is the distance in the second direction from the center of the ball to the point where the first and second surfaces meet, b is the distance in the second direction from the center of the ball to the point where the ball meets the first surface, and r is the radius of the ball) 9. In Paragraph 2, The above rail is disposed between the first rail surface and the second rail surface and includes a second side spaced apart from the first side in a first direction, The above-mentioned second side is a camera actuator comprising a third side and a fourth side bent from the third side.

10. In Paragraph 9, The angle formed by the third surface with the second direction is smaller than the angle formed by the fourth surface with the second direction, and The third surface is superimposed with the first surface in the first direction, and The above-mentioned fourth surface is a camera actuator that overlaps the above-mentioned second surface and the above-mentioned first direction.

Images