Camera apparatus and electronic device

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of photography, and provides a camera apparatus and an electronic device. The camera apparatus may comprise a camera module, a cover plate, and a lifting / lowering assembly; the cover plate defines an accommodating cavity; the camera module is located in the accommodating cavity; a gap is formed between the side wall of the camera module and the cover plate; the camera module is connected to the lifting / lowering assembly; and the lifting / lowering assembly can drive the camera module to move up or down in the optical axis direction of a camera. The camera apparatus further comprises a rotating member; the rotating member is arranged on the side wall of the camera module, and is rotatably connected to the camera module; and when the lifting / lowering assembly drives the camera module and the rotating member to move in the optical axis direction of the camera, the rotating member can move to the gap and is used for blocking the gap. The rotating member can be used for blocking the gap between the cover plate and the camera module, thereby optimizing the appearance aesthetics of a device, and preventing external debris from entering the interior of the device through the gap.

Description

Camera devices, electronic devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411929595.9, filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on December 23, 2024, entitled "Camera Device, Electronic Device", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of camera technology, and more particularly to a camera device and electronic device. Background Technology

[0003] With the continuous development of electronic device integration technology, taking photos and videos has become one of the commonly used functions of electronic devices, leading to the increasingly widespread application of cameras in electronic devices. In order to meet the design requirements of thinner and lighter electronic devices, as well as users' requirements for shooting angle and focal length, cameras can extend out of the housing or retract into the housing as needed. That is, pop-up cameras reduce the static appearance protrusion height, and when extended, they utilize the increased space to improve shooting performance, such as changing the shooting angle and focal length.

[0004] When the camera extends outside the housing, there will be a gap between the camera and the housing. This gap will not only allow external substances to enter the device, but will also affect its appearance. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a camera device and an electronic device. Specifically, it provides a camera device in which the gap between the camera module and the housing can be covered when the camera module is extended.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0007] In one aspect, this application provides a camera device that can be used in electronic devices, such as terminal electronic products like mobile phones and tablets.

[0008] The camera device may include a camera module, a cover plate, and a lifting assembly; the cover plate forms a receiving cavity, the camera module is located in the receiving cavity, and there is a gap between the side wall of the camera module and the cover plate; the camera module is connected to the lifting assembly, and the lifting assembly can drive the camera module to rise or fall along the optical axis of the camera.

[0009] In addition, the camera device may also include a rotating component, which is disposed on the side wall of the camera module and is rotatably connected to the camera module; when the lifting assembly drives the camera module and the rotating component to move along the optical axis of the camera, the camera module can pass through the receiving cavity, and the rotating component can move to the gap and be used to shield the gap.

[0010] The camera device provided in this application includes a rotating component. Thus, when the camera module is retracted into the housing, the rotating component is rotatably connected to the camera module, which can be considered as the rotating component being in a folded state, allowing it to avoid the camera module. In addition, when the lifting assembly lifts the camera module, it also lifts the rotating component together. The rotating component can rise to the gap between the cover plate and the camera module, thereby covering the gap. This not only optimizes the aesthetic appearance of the device but also prevents external debris from entering the device through the gap.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the camera device also includes a positioning structure that prevents the rotating component from rotating relative to the camera module during movement of the camera module and the rotating part.

[0012] For example, when the camera module and the rotating component rise, and before the rotating component moves to the gap, the rotating component needs to be fixed relative to the camera module and cannot rotate. This application utilizes the limitation of the positioning structure to make the rotating component in a stationary state relative to the camera module.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the positioning structure includes a positioning block and a positioning rod, with the positioning block disposed on the camera module and the positioning rod disposed on the rotating component, the positioning rod being located on the positioning block.

[0014] This can be understood as follows: the positioning rod connected to the rotating component is set on the positioning block connected to the camera module. The positioning rod overlaps the positioning block, which can prevent the rotating component from rotating relative to the camera module.

[0015] In one feasible approach, the positioning rod can be an elastic element.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the camera module includes a mounting base and a lens assembly, the lens assembly being disposed on the mounting base; a rotating component is disposed on the side wall of the mounting base and is rotatably connected to the mounting base via a rotating shaft extending through the side wall of the mounting base into the mounting base; and a positioning structure is disposed within the mounting base.

[0017] In this implementation, there is a gap between the mounting base that supports the lens assembly and the cover plate. The rotating part is set on the side wall of the mounting base, and the positioning structure is set inside the mounting base, that is, the positioning structure is hidden inside. When the camera module is in the extended state, it will not affect the appearance.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the camera device also includes a blocking structure that prevents the rotating member from rising along the optical axis of the camera if the rotating member moves into the gap.

[0019] When the camera module and the rotating component rise, and the rotating component rises to the gap, the camera module can continue to rise, while the rotating component needs to remain in the gap. In this way, the rotating component can be confined in the gap by a blocking structure to block the gap.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the blocking structure includes an extending protrusion disposed on the outer edge of the rotating member; the cover plate includes a top plate; when the rotating member is in the gap, the extending protrusion is located below the top plate and is used to contact the top plate.

[0021] In this implementation, when the rotating component rises to the gap, the extended protrusion moves to below the top plate, using the top plate to prevent the rotating component from continuing to rise. This blocking structure is simple in structure and does not occupy a large space.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the sidewall of the camera module has an inlay groove, and the rotating component is located within the inlay groove.

[0023] By placing the rotating component within the mounting groove, when the camera module is in the retracted state, this application provides space for other structural components to avoid protruding from the side wall of the camera module, making the overall structure of the device more compact.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the rotating component includes: a first part, a second part, and a third part, the third part connecting the first part and the second part, the first part being disposed opposite to the second part; both the first part and the second part are rotatably connected to the camera module via a rotating shaft.

[0025] In other words, the rotating component in this example has a C-shaped structure. For example, when the camera module has a quadrilateral structure, one side of the camera module can be placed close to the cover plate, while the other three sides have gaps with the cover plate. The rotating component with a C-shaped structure can cover the gaps on the three sides.

[0026] In one possible approach, a blocking structure including an extended bump can be placed on the third part.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the lifting assembly may include a base, a lifting bracket, a motor, and a linkage mechanism; the lifting bracket is disposed within the space enclosed by the base, and the linkage mechanism connects the motor and the lifting bracket; the linkage mechanism includes a connecting shaft, a first link, and a second link, that is, the linkage mechanism may be a double-link mechanism.

[0028] The connecting shaft is connected to the motor, the first connecting rod is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft, the first connecting rod is fixedly connected to the lifting bracket, the second connecting rod is connected to the first connecting rod, and the second connecting rod is fixedly connected to the lifting bracket. The motor is used to drive the connecting shaft to rotate, thereby driving the first and second connecting rods to rotate. The rotating first and second connecting rods are used to drive the lifting bracket to rise or fall relative to the base along the optical axis of the camera.

[0029] The motor is connected to the lifting bracket via a linkage mechanism, and the camera module can also be connected to the lifting bracket. When the motor starts, the linkage mechanism can raise or lower the lifting bracket and the camera module, extending or retracting them. Because this linkage mechanism is a double-linkage mechanism, compared to the helical drives of some examples, this application can achieve a larger stroke for the camera module; for example, the stroke can be greater than 1.6 mm.

[0030] In addition, the movement of the first and second links in this application is a type of rotary joint movement, which can also be understood as a folding linkage mechanism. The folding linkage mechanism will not occupy a large space in the direction of camera module movement, so it will not occupy the dimension in the thickness direction of the electronic device.

[0031] Based on the above, the camera lifting assembly provided in this application can be used in electronic devices, which can not only realize the large stroke of the camera module, but also meet the requirements of miniaturization design.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the motor's output shaft extends along a first direction, and the connecting shaft extends along a second direction, the first and second directions being perpendicular to each other, and both the first and second directions being perpendicular to the optical axis of the camera; the lifting assembly also includes a transmission structure, through which the motor's output shaft is connected to the connecting shaft.

[0033] In other words, this application places the motor and connecting shaft in different positions on the camera module, which can make full use of the peripheral space of the camera module and avoids occupying a large space in one position.

[0034] In one feasible approach, the transmission structure includes a worm gear transmission structure, with the worm gear connected to the output shaft of the motor.

[0035] Using a worm gear as the transmission structure results in a large transmission ratio and stable transmission.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the second link is connected to the base via a limiting structure; the limiting structure includes a limiting groove and a slide rail, the extending direction of the limiting groove being parallel to the optical axis of the camera, one of the limiting groove and the slide rail being disposed on the base, and the other being disposed on the second link.

[0037] When the first link drives the second link to rotate, the limiting structure can limit the movement direction of the second link. Since the extension direction of the limiting groove is parallel to the optical axis of the camera, the camera module can rise or fall smoothly along the optical axis.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the second link includes a first branch, a connecting part, and a second branch; the connecting part connects the first branch and the second branch, and the connected first branch, connecting part, and second branch have a C-shaped structure; both the first branch and the second branch are fixedly connected to the lifting bracket.

[0039] The second link has a simple structure. The first link and the C-shaped second link work together to make the camera module rise and fall smoothly.

[0040] In one feasible configuration, the connecting part is located above the connecting shaft.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the connection point between the first link and the lifting bracket is located on the first side of the camera module, and the connection point between the second link and the lifting bracket is also located on the first side of the camera module.

[0042] In one possible implementation, the linkage mechanism further includes a rotating bracket sleeved on a connecting shaft; an elastic structure is sleeved on the connecting shaft, and the elastic structure, the rotating bracket, and the first connecting rod are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the connecting shaft; during the upward movement of the lifting bracket, the elastic structure is used to apply a spring force to the rotating bracket toward the first connecting rod, causing the first connecting rod and the rotating bracket to rotate around the connecting shaft.

[0043] This can be understood as follows: during the process of the lifting bracket and camera module rising, the elastic structure can apply elastic force to the rotating bracket, causing the rotating bracket to expand toward the first link, thereby fixing the rotating bracket and the first link relatively. In this way, when the connecting shaft drives the rotating bracket to rotate, the rotating bracket can drive the first link to rotate together.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the elastic structure has a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to a first link and the second end being connected to a rotating support; when the lifting support descends and the first link rotates about the connecting shaft, the elastic structure has an elastic force away from the rotating support.

[0045] In some application scenarios, such as when the extended camera module is impacted by an external force, the elastic structure is triggered. This elastic structure blocks the transmission of force, preventing damage to components such as the motor. For example, when the camera module is subjected to a large external force, the camera module and the lifting bracket will descend, causing the first and second connecting rods to rotate. Since one end of the elastic structure is connected to the first connecting rod and the other end is connected to the rotating bracket, the rotating first connecting rod will drive the elastic structure to move, causing the elastic structure to generate torque. This torque is away from the rotating bracket, which reduces the squeezing force of the rotating bracket on the first connecting rod. Consequently, the first connecting rod will not drive the rotating bracket to rotate, and therefore will not drive the connecting shaft to rotate. The worm gear transmission structure will also not move, protecting the worm gear and the motor.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the first link has a first insertion slot, and the first end of the elastic structure extends into the first insertion slot; the rotating bracket has a second insertion slot, and the second end of the elastic structure extends into the second insertion slot; when the lifting bracket rises or falls, the first end of the elastic structure can move in the first insertion slot, and the second end of the elastic structure can move in the second insertion slot; when the lifting bracket falls and the first link rotates about the connecting shaft, the first end of the elastic structure can contact the first link, so that the elastic structure has an elastic force away from the rotating bracket.

[0047] In this structure, insertion slots are provided on both the first connecting rod and the rotating bracket, and the end of the elastic structure is inserted into the corresponding insertion slot. This connection method is simple and easy to implement.

[0048] In one possible implementation, the rotating support includes a support fixing part and a support connecting part, both of which are sleeved on a connecting shaft, with a gap between them; the first connecting rod includes a connecting rod connecting part, which is sleeved on the connecting shaft and located between the support fixing part and the support connecting part; an elastic structure is located on the side of the support connecting part away from the connecting rod connecting part; when the lifting support is raised, the elastic structure is used to apply a spring force toward the connecting rod connecting part to the support connecting part, causing the support connecting part and the connecting rod connecting part to rotate around the connecting shaft.

[0049] In one possible implementation, the base includes a base connecting portion, which is sleeved on the connecting shaft; the base connecting portion is located between the bracket fixing portion and the bracket connecting portion; along the axial direction of the connecting shaft, the elastic structure, the bracket connecting portion, the connecting rod connecting portion, the base connecting portion and the bracket fixing portion are arranged in sequence.

[0050] Rotating the connecting shaft to the base ensures the stability of the connecting shaft's rotation.

[0051] In one possible implementation, the elastic structure includes a torsion spring, one end of which is connected to a first link and the other end of which is connected to a rotating support.

[0052] Using a torsion spring as an elastic element, the torsion spring is in a compressed state during the normal rising or falling process of the camera module, which can apply an expansion force to the rotating bracket, causing the rotating bracket to squeeze the first link.

[0053] In one possible implementation, the camera lifting assembly further includes a damping element sleeved on the connecting shaft, and the base includes a base connection portion sleeved on the connecting shaft; the damping element is located between the elastic structure and the base connection portion; when the lifting bracket rises or falls, the elastic structure applies a spring force to the damping element toward the base connection portion, causing the damping element to contact the base connection portion.

[0054] By using a damping component fitted onto the connecting shaft, other structural components fitted onto the connecting shaft can be made to sway, which can correspondingly improve the shooting effect of the camera module.

[0055] In one possible implementation, the first link is slidably connected to the second link via a sliding structure; the sliding structure includes a track groove and a slider, the slider being located within the track groove, one of the track groove and the slider being disposed on the first link, and the other being disposed on the second link.

[0056] Secondly, this application provides an electronic device, such as a terminal electronic product, like a mobile phone or tablet.

[0057] The electronic device may include a housing and a camera device as described in any of the above implementations, the housing having a lens aperture, the camera device being located inside the housing, and a portion of the camera device being exposed through the lens aperture.

[0058] Since the electronic device provided in this application includes the camera device in the above implementation, and the camera device includes a rotating component, when the camera module is retracted into the housing, the rotating component is rotatably connected to the camera module, that is, the rotating component is in a folded state, which can avoid the camera module; in addition, when the lifting component drives the camera module to rise, it will also drive the rotating component to rise together. The rotating component can rise to the gap between the cover plate and the camera module, thereby blocking the gap. Thus, not only is the appearance of the device optimized, but external debris can also be prevented from entering the device through the gap.

[0059] Thirdly, this application provides a lifting component that can be used in a camera device.

[0060] The lifting assembly includes a base, a lifting bracket, a motor, and a linkage mechanism; the lifting bracket is set within the space enclosed by the base, and the linkage mechanism connects the motor and the lifting bracket; the linkage mechanism includes a connecting shaft, a first link, and a second link.

[0061] The connecting shaft is connected to the motor, the first connecting rod is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft, the first connecting rod is fixedly connected to the lifting bracket, the second connecting rod is connected to the first connecting rod, and the second connecting rod is fixedly connected to the lifting bracket; the second connecting rod includes a first branch, a connecting part, and a second branch; the connecting part connects the first branch and the second branch, and the connected first branch, connecting part, and second branch have a C-shaped structure; both the first branch and the second branch are fixedly connected to the lifting bracket.

[0062] The motor is used to drive the connecting shaft to rotate, thereby driving the first link and the second link to rotate. The rotating first link and the second link are used to drive the lifting bracket to rise or fall relative to the base along the optical axis of the camera.

[0063] The motor is connected to the lifting bracket via a linkage mechanism, and the camera module can also be connected to the lifting bracket. When the motor starts, the linkage mechanism can raise or lower the lifting bracket and the camera module, extending or retracting them. Because this linkage mechanism is a double-linkage mechanism, compared to the helical drives of some examples, this application can achieve a larger stroke for the camera module; for example, the stroke can be greater than 1.6 mm.

[0064] Furthermore, the movement of the first and second links in this application is a type of rotary joint motion, which can also be understood as a folding linkage mechanism. A folding linkage mechanism does not occupy a large space in the direction of camera module movement, thus not affecting the thickness of the electronic device. In addition, the second link has a C-shaped structure, which also does not occupy a large space.

[0065] Based on the above, the camera lifting assembly provided in this application can be used in electronic devices, which can not only realize the large stroke of the camera module, but also meet the requirements of miniaturization design.

[0066] In one feasible configuration, the connecting part is located above the connecting shaft.

[0067] In one possible implementation, the connection point between the first link and the lifting bracket is located on the first side of the camera module, and the connection point between the second link and the lifting bracket is also located on the first side of the camera module.

[0068] In one possible implementation, the linkage mechanism further includes a rotating bracket sleeved on a connecting shaft; an elastic structure is sleeved on the connecting shaft, and the elastic structure, the rotating bracket, and the first connecting rod are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the connecting shaft; during the upward movement of the lifting bracket, the elastic structure is used to apply a spring force to the rotating bracket toward the first connecting rod, causing the first connecting rod and the rotating bracket to rotate around the connecting shaft.

[0069] This can be understood as follows: during the process of the lifting bracket and camera module rising, the elastic structure can apply elastic force to the rotating bracket, causing the rotating bracket to expand toward the first link, thereby fixing the rotating bracket and the first link relatively. In this way, when the connecting shaft drives the rotating bracket to rotate, the rotating bracket can drive the first link to rotate together.

[0070] In one possible implementation, the elastic structure has a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to a first link and the second end being connected to a rotating support; when the lifting support descends and the first link rotates about the connecting shaft, the elastic structure has an elastic force away from the rotating support.

[0071] In some application scenarios, such as when the extended camera module is impacted by an external force, the elastic structure is triggered. This elastic structure blocks the transmission of force, preventing damage to components such as the motor. For example, when the camera module is subjected to a large external force, the camera module and the lifting bracket will descend, causing the first and second connecting rods to rotate. Since one end of the elastic structure is connected to the first connecting rod and the other end is connected to the rotating bracket, the rotating first connecting rod will drive the elastic structure to move, causing the elastic structure to generate torque. This torque is away from the rotating bracket, which reduces the squeezing force of the rotating bracket on the first connecting rod. Consequently, the first connecting rod will not drive the rotating bracket to rotate, and therefore will not drive the connecting shaft to rotate. The worm gear transmission structure will also not move, protecting the worm gear and the motor.

[0072] In one possible implementation, the first link has a first insertion slot, and the first end of the elastic structure extends into the first insertion slot; the rotating bracket has a second insertion slot, and the second end of the elastic structure extends into the second insertion slot; when the lifting bracket rises or falls, the first end of the elastic structure can move in the first insertion slot, and the second end of the elastic structure can move in the second insertion slot; when the lifting bracket falls and the first link rotates about the connecting shaft, the first end of the elastic structure can contact the first link, so that the elastic structure has an elastic force away from the rotating bracket.

[0073] In this structure, insertion slots are provided on both the first connecting rod and the rotating bracket, and the end of the elastic structure is inserted into the corresponding insertion slot. This connection method is simple and easy to implement.

[0074] In one possible implementation, the rotating support includes a support fixing part and a support connecting part, both of which are sleeved on a connecting shaft, with a gap between them; the first connecting rod includes a connecting rod connecting part, which is sleeved on the connecting shaft and located between the support fixing part and the support connecting part; an elastic structure is located on the side of the support connecting part away from the connecting rod connecting part; when the lifting support is raised, the elastic structure is used to apply a spring force toward the connecting rod connecting part to the support connecting part, causing the support connecting part and the connecting rod connecting part to rotate around the connecting shaft.

[0075] In one possible implementation, the base includes a base connecting portion, which is sleeved on the connecting shaft; the base connecting portion is located between the bracket fixing portion and the bracket connecting portion; along the axial direction of the connecting shaft, the elastic structure, the bracket connecting portion, the connecting rod connecting portion, the base connecting portion and the bracket fixing portion are arranged in sequence.

[0076] Rotating the connecting shaft to the base ensures the stability of the connecting shaft's rotation.

[0077] In one possible implementation, the elastic structure includes a torsion spring, one end of which is connected to a first link and the other end of which is connected to a rotating support.

[0078] Using a torsion spring as an elastic element, the torsion spring is in a compressed state during the normal rising or falling process of the camera module, which can apply an expansion force to the rotating bracket, causing the rotating bracket to squeeze the first link.

[0079] In one possible implementation, the camera lifting assembly further includes a damping element sleeved on the connecting shaft, and the base includes a base connection portion sleeved on the connecting shaft; the damping element is located between the elastic structure and the base connection portion; when the lifting bracket rises or falls, the elastic structure applies a spring force to the damping element toward the base connection portion, causing the damping element to contact the base connection portion.

[0080] By using a damping component fitted onto the connecting shaft, other structural components fitted onto the connecting shaft can be made to sway, which can correspondingly improve the shooting effect of the camera module.

[0081] In one possible implementation, the first link is slidably connected to the second link via a sliding structure; the sliding structure includes a track groove and a slider, the slider being located within the track groove, one of the track groove and the slider being disposed on the first link, and the other being disposed on the second link. Attached Figure Description

[0082] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0083] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along the dashed line O1-O2 in Figure 1;

[0084] Figure 3 is another sectional view obtained by cutting along the dashed line O1-O2 in Figure 1;

[0085] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0086] Figure 5 is an exploded structural diagram of the camera module in Figure 4;

[0087] Figure 6 is a structural schematic diagram of a camera module of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application in one state;

[0088] Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram of a camera module of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application in another state;

[0089] Figure 8 is an exploded structural diagram of the camera module in Figures 6 and 7;

[0090] Figure 9 is an exploded structural diagram of the camera module in Figures 6 and 7;

[0091] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism in a camera device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0092] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism in a camera device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0093] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the transmission structure in a camera device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0094] Figure 13 is an exploded structural diagram of a camera module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0095] Figure 14 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0096] Figure 15 is an exploded structural diagram of a camera module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0097] Figure 16 is an exploded structural diagram of the connecting shaft and rotating bracket of a camera module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0098] Figure 17 is a structural schematic diagram of a camera module of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application in one state;

[0099] Figure 18 is a structural schematic diagram of a camera module of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application in another state;

[0100] Figure 19 is a structural schematic diagram of a camera module of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application in one state;

[0101] Figure 20 is a structural schematic diagram of a camera module of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application in another state;

[0102] Figure 21 is a structural schematic diagram of a camera module of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application in one state;

[0103] Figure 22 is a structural schematic diagram of a camera module of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application in another state;

[0104] Figure 23 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0105] Figure 24 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0106] Figure 25 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0107] Figure 26 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0108] Figure 27 is a partially exploded structural diagram of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0109] Figure 28 is a partial exploded view of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0110] Figure 29 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0111] Figure 30 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0112] Figure 31 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0113] Figure 32 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0114] Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along the dashed line B1-B2 in Figure 32;

[0115] Figure 34 is a structural schematic diagram of a camera module of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application in one state;

[0116] Figure 35 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along the dashed line C1-C2 in Figure 34;

[0117] Figure 36 is a structural schematic diagram of a camera module of a camera device provided in an embodiment of this application in one state;

[0118] Figure 37 is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along the dashed line D1-D2 in Figure 36;

[0119] Figure 38 is an exploded structural diagram of a camera module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0120] Figure 39 is an exploded structural diagram of a camera module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0121] Figure 40 is a cross-sectional view of a camera module provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0122] Reference numerals: 01-Electronic device; 02-Display screen; 03-Rear shell; 04-Middle frame; 05-Processor; 06-Opening; 07-Camera hole; 08-Housing; 10-Camera device; 20-Camera module; 30-Lifting assembly; 40-Buffer structure; 21-Variable aperture; 22-Lens assembly; 23-Motor; 31-Base; 32-Lifting bracket; 33-Motor; 34-Linkage mechanism; 311-Accommodation space; 312-Slide groove; 313-Base connection part; 321-Mounting groove; 341-Connecting shaft; 342-First link; 343-Second link; 344-Transmission structure; 345-Rotating bracket; 3441-Worm; 3442-Worm wheel; 34421-Meshing part; 34422-Pin part; 3433-Connecting part; 3434-Trajectory groove; 3423 - Protrusion; 3424 - Slider; 3425 - Linkage connection; 3426 - Insertion groove; 3451 - Through hole; 3452 - Bracket connection; 3453 - Insertion port; 3454 - Bracket fixing part; 3461 - Protrusion; 3462 - Embedding groove. Detailed Implementation

[0123] The following embodiments of this application will be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0124] The technical solutions of this application can be applied to various electronic devices with camera functions. For example, the electronic devices in the embodiments of this application can be mobile phones, tablets, laptops, smart home devices, smart wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches, smart bracelets, smart glasses, smart helmets), virtual reality (VR) electronic devices, augmented reality (AR) electronic devices, etc. The electronic devices can also be handheld devices with wireless communication functions, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices, electronic devices in 5G networks, or electronic devices in future evolved public land mobile networks (PLMNs), etc. The embodiments of this application are not limited in this regard.

[0125] As shown in Figure 1, the electronic device 01 provided in this embodiment may include a display screen 02, a rear shell 03 located on the back of the display screen 02 (distributed opposite to the display surface of the display screen 02), and a mid-frame 04 located between the display screen 02 and the rear shell 03. The mid-frame 04 can support the display screen 02.

[0126] The display screen 02 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, a micro (or mini) light-emitting diode (LED) display, or a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) display, etc. This application does not limit the type of the above-mentioned display screen.

[0127] The aforementioned electronic device 01 may further include a processor 05 electrically connected to the display screen 02. The processor 05 may be disposed on the side of the middle frame 04 away from the display screen 02. The rear cover 03 is fastened to the middle frame 04, thereby forming an installation space between the rear cover 03 and the middle frame 04 for accommodating the processor 05, battery, and other devices. The processor 05 can provide display data to the display screen 02 to drive the display screen 02 to display images.

[0128] In some embodiments, in order to enable the above-mentioned electronic device 01 to realize image acquisition, i.e., shooting function, the electronic device 01 provided in the above-mentioned embodiments of the present application may further include a camera device 10, which may be a front camera device or a rear camera device. Taking a rear camera device as an example, the rear shell 03 is connected to the middle frame 04 to form a housing 08, and a part of the camera device 10 is disposed inside the housing 08.

[0129] For example, when the camera device 10 is a rear-facing camera, a lens hole 06 is provided on the rear shell 03 of the housing 08 to expose part of the camera device 10, and another part of the camera device 10 can pass through the lens hole 06. Alternatively, when the camera 10 is a front-facing camera, the lens hole 06 can be provided on the middle frame 04 and the display screen 02 of the housing 08. For ease of explanation, the following examples all use the case where the camera device 10 is a rear-facing camera and the lens hole 06 is provided on the rear shell 03.

[0130] The camera device 10 in this application example can be one or more of a standard camera device, a telephoto camera device, a wide-angle camera device, an ultra-telephoto camera device, and an ultra-wide-angle camera device. Furthermore, when the camera device 10 is capable of zooming and focusing, the direction of movement of the optical lens in the camera device 10 can be aligned with the optical axis of the optical lens. Alternatively, the direction of movement of the optical lens in the camera device 10 can be perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical lens (e.g., in a periscope camera), and this application does not limit this. Moreover, this application does not limit the number of camera devices 10; Figure 1 is an example illustrating a rear-facing camera device including one camera device 10.

[0131] For ease of explanation, the following description assumes that the movement direction of the optical lens in the camera device 10 is consistent with the optical axis direction of the optical lens. For clarity, an XYZ coordinate axis is established as shown in Figure 2, where the XY plane formed by the first direction Y and the second direction X can be perpendicular to the optical axis Q1-Q2. The third direction Z can be parallel to the optical axis Q1-Q2 of the camera device 10. Furthermore, any two of the first direction Y, the second direction X, and the third direction Z are perpendicular, or approximately perpendicular, provided that manufacturing and installation process errors are satisfied.

[0132] In some embodiments of this application, in order to reduce the thickness (dimension along the third direction Z) of the electronic device 01, for example, as shown in FIG2 (a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along the dashed line O1-O2 in FIG1), when the camera device 10 is in a first state (e.g., a non-shooting state), the camera device 10 can be retracted into the lens hole 06 along the third direction Z, so that the camera device 10 does not protrude from the surface of the rear cover 03 away from the middle frame 04 (i.e., the outer surface of the rear cover 03). Alternatively, the camera device 10 can be partially retracted into the lens hole 06 along the third direction Z, so that the camera device 10 protrudes only slightly from the surface of the rear cover 03 away from the middle frame 04.

[0133] When the camera device 10 is in the second state (e.g., shooting state), as shown in FIG3 (another cross-sectional view obtained by cutting along the dotted line O1-O2 in FIG1), a part of the camera device 10 can extend out of the lens hole 06 opened on the rear shell 03 along the third direction Z, so that the camera device 10 can protrude from the surface of the rear shell 03 away from the middle frame 04.

[0134] The above is an example illustrating that the first state is a non-shooting state and the second state is a shooting state. When the camera device 10 is in shooting state, it can perform standard focal length shooting, wide-angle shooting, telephoto shooting, or super telephoto shooting. In some other embodiments of this application, both the first state and the second state can be shooting states. The above is merely an example illustrating the first and second states, and this application does not limit them.

[0135] As can be seen from the above, a portion of the camera device 10 can move along a third direction Z. The specific structure of the camera device 10 will be illustrated below.

[0136] In some embodiments of this application, as shown in FIG4, the camera device 10 may include a camera module 20 and a lifting assembly 30. The lifting assembly 30 may have a chamber, with at least a portion of the camera module 20 located within the chamber. The lifting assembly 30 can be used to drive the camera module 20 to move along a third direction Z (i.e., rise or fall along the third direction Z), thereby enabling the camera device 10 to be in the aforementioned first state or second state. The lifting assembly 30 may be connected to a portion of the camera module 20, thereby driving the camera module 20 to rise or fall along the third direction Z. At least a portion of the lifting assembly 30 may be located within the housing 08 shown in FIG1.

[0137] In some embodiments of this application, as shown in FIG5, the camera module 20 may include a variable aperture 21, a lens assembly 22, and a motor 23.

[0138] For example, the lens assembly 22 may include one or more optical lenses, such that the lens assembly 22 with the optical lenses can use the refraction principle of the optical lenses to focus the light of the object being photographed onto the focal plane of the camera module 20 for imaging.

[0139] The variable aperture 21 is located on the light-incident side of the lens assembly 22. The variable aperture 21 has an aperture hole 100 with an adjustable aperture. By changing the aperture hole 100, the amount of light entering the camera module 20 can be adjusted.

[0140] In some embodiments, the lifting assembly 30 (as shown in FIG4) can be connected to the variable aperture 21 and the lens assembly 22 to drive the variable aperture 21 and the lens assembly 22 to move along the third direction Z to realize the lifting of the camera module 20.

[0141] The surface of the variable aperture 21 facing away from the motor 23 can serve as the light-incident surface S0 of the camera module 20. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, when the camera module 20 is a fixed aperture camera, the variable aperture 21 may not be provided in the camera module, and the surface of the lens assembly 22 facing away from the motor 23 can serve as the light-incident surface S0 of the camera module 20.

[0142] As shown in Figure 5, along the optical axis Q1-Q2, the motor 23 can be positioned on the side of the lens assembly 22 opposite to the variable aperture 21. The motor 23 can drive the lens assembly 22 to move along the third direction Z to achieve autofocus (AF). Alternatively, as another example, the motor 23 can also drive the lens assembly 22 to move in the XY plane or rotate around the optical axis Q1-Q2 of the lens assembly 22 to achieve optical image stabilization. In other embodiments, the lifting assembly 30 (as shown in Figure 4) can also be connected to the motor 23 to drive the variable aperture 21, the lens assembly 22, and the motor 23 to move along the third direction Z to achieve the lifting of the camera module 20.

[0143] As the camera module 20 rises along a third direction (Z), a portion of the lifting assembly 30 can also rise along a third direction (Z). Conversely, as the camera module 20 descends along a third direction (Z), a portion of the lifting assembly 30 can also descend along a third direction (Z).

[0144] The above is merely an example illustrating the application scenarios of the lifting component 30 and does not constitute a limitation on the application scenarios of the lifting component 30. For example, the lifting component 30 can also be used to lift other components that need to be lifted besides the camera module 20, or to lift synchronously with other components that need to be lifted. The structure of the lifting component 30 is illustrated below.

[0145] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, Figure 6 is a structural schematic diagram of a camera module 20 in a retracted state (which may be a non-shooting state) according to an embodiment of this application, and Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram of a camera module 20 in an extended state (which may be a shooting state) according to an embodiment of this application.

[0146] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, Figure 8 is an exploded view of the structure shown in Figures 6 and 7, and Figure 9 is a further exploded view of Figure 8. Figures 8 and 9 illustrate the structure of a lifting assembly 30 according to an example of this application.

[0147] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, in this example, the lifting assembly 30 includes a base 31, a lifting bracket 32, a motor 33, and a linkage mechanism 34.

[0148] The lifting bracket 32 ​​is connected to the base 31 via a linkage mechanism 34. The lifting bracket 32 ​​is used to connect to the camera module 20, and the motor 33 is connected to the linkage mechanism 34. In this way, when the motor 33 drives the linkage mechanism 34 to move, the linkage mechanism 34 can drive the lifting bracket 32 ​​to move up and down relative to the base 31 in the third direction Z, thereby driving the camera module 20 to move up and down.

[0149] That is, the base 31 can be stationary relative to the lifting bracket 32, while the lifting bracket 32 ​​can move relative to the base 31 along the third direction Z. When the lifting bracket 32 ​​moves away from the base 31 along the third direction Z, the lifting bracket 32 ​​is in an upward state. Conversely, when the lifting bracket 32 ​​moves towards the base 31 along the third direction Z, the lifting bracket 32 ​​is in a downward state.

[0150] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the lifting support 32 can be a rectangular ring structure, and the base 31 can be a rectangular ring structure. Alternatively, the lifting support 32 can be a rectangular ring structure, and the base 31 can be a circular ring structure. Alternatively, the lifting support 32 can be a circular ring structure, and the base 31 can be a rectangular ring structure. Or, both the base 31 and the lifting support 32 can be circular ring structures.

[0151] In the examples of Figures 8 and 9, the lifting bracket 32 ​​is disposed within the accommodating space 311 enclosed by the base 31. In this way, compared with stacking the lifting bracket 32 ​​and the base 31 along the third direction Z, this application can compress the size of the entire camera device in the third direction Z.

[0152] This application employs a linkage mechanism 34 to drive the camera module 20 to move up and down. The linkage mechanism 34 can achieve a large stroke lifting of the camera module 20, for example, the stroke can be greater than 1.6mm. The following is a detailed description of the structure that the linkage mechanism 34 can achieve.

[0153] Figures 10 and 11 are structural diagrams of a linkage mechanism 34 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figures 10 and 11 are different perspective views of the linkage mechanism 34.

[0154] The linkage mechanism 34 includes: a connecting shaft 341, a first link 342, and a second link 343. In Figures 10 and 11, the thick black solid line indicates the approximate position of the first link 342, and the thick black dashed line indicates the approximate position of the second link 343.

[0155] The connecting shaft 341 is used to connect to the motor 33. When the output shaft of the motor 33 rotates, it can drive the connecting shaft 341 to rotate.

[0156] The first link 342 is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft 341, and the first link 342 is also fixedly connected to the lifting bracket 32. In this way, when the motor 33 drives the connecting shaft 341 to rotate, it can drive the first link 342 to rotate around the connecting shaft 341, and then drive the lifting bracket 32 ​​carrying the camera module to move up and down along the third direction Z.

[0157] The second link 343 is connected to the first link 342, and the second link 343 is also fixedly connected to the lifting bracket 32. Therefore, when the motor 33 drives the connecting shaft 341 to rotate, it can cause the first link 342 to rotate around the connecting shaft 341. The first link 342 rotating around the connecting shaft 341 can then cause the second link 343 to rotate, thereby causing the lifting bracket 32 ​​carrying the camera module to move up and down along the third direction Z.

[0158] In other words, the linkage mechanism 34 provided in this application is a double-link linkage mechanism. The double-link linkage mechanism can improve the stability of the lifting bracket 32 ​​and the camera module 20 in vertical movement, and can also increase the vertical movement stroke.

[0159] In some examples, the axial direction of the output shaft of motor 33 can be parallel to the axial direction of connecting shaft 341. For example, if the output shaft of motor 33 extends along the X direction, then the connecting shaft 341 extends along the X direction. Alternatively, in other examples, the axial direction of the output shaft of motor 33 can be at an angle to the axial direction of connecting shaft 341. For example, in the examples of Figures 10 and 11, the output shaft of motor 33 extends along the X direction (which can be called the first direction), and the connecting shaft 341 extends along the Y direction (which can be called the second direction) which is perpendicular to the X direction.

[0160] That is, in the examples of Figures 10 and 11, the motor 33 and the connecting shaft 341 are located in different positions of the camera module. In this way, compared with the motor 33 and the connecting shaft 341 being concentrated in one position, this application can make full use of the space in other positions and will not occupy a large space in one position.

[0161] Since the motor 33 and the connecting shaft 341 are located in different positions of the camera module, as shown in Figure 12, a transmission structure 344 can be set up. The connecting shaft 341 is connected to the motor 33 through the transmission structure 344, so that when the output shaft of the motor 33 rotates around the X direction, the connecting shaft 341 can rotate around the Y direction through the transmission structure 344.

[0162] The transmission structure 344 can be implemented in a variety of ways.

[0163] For example, a gear meshing transmission structure can be used, which includes a first gear and a second gear. The first gear is connected to the output shaft of the motor 33, and the first gear and the second gear mesh. The second gear is connected to the connecting shaft 341. For instance, when the output shaft of the motor 33 rotates around the X direction, it drives the first gear to rotate around the X direction. The rotating first gear drives the second gear to rotate around the Y direction, which in turn drives the connecting shaft 341 to rotate around the Y direction.

[0164] For example, the worm gear transmission structure shown in Figure 12 can be used. In this structure, the worm 3441 is connected to the output shaft of the motor 33, the worm wheel 3442 meshes with the worm 3441, and the worm wheel 3442 is connected to the connecting shaft 341. When the output shaft of the motor 33 rotates around the X direction, it drives the worm 3441 to rotate around the X direction. The rotating worm 3441 drives the worm wheel 3442 to rotate around the Y direction, which in turn drives the connecting shaft 341 to rotate around the Y direction.

[0165] The worm gear transmission structure shown in Figure 12 is relatively simple in structure and connection, occupies little space, and has high transmission efficiency and relatively stable transmission.

[0166] Referring to Figure 12, the worm gear 3442 may include a meshing portion 34421 and a pin portion 34422 connected to the meshing portion 34421; the meshing portion 34421 meshes with the worm 3441, and the pin portion 34422 is connected to the connecting shaft 341. As shown in Figure 12, the meshing portion 34421 and the pin portion 34422 may be integrally formed structural parts, or the meshing portion 34421 and the pin portion 34422 may be independent structural parts, which may be fixedly connected by a connector (e.g., a threaded connector).

[0167] In some feasible structures, the connecting shaft 341 and the worm gear 3442 can be integrated into one component. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 12, a slot can be provided in the pin portion 34422, into which the connecting shaft 341 extends to achieve a fixed connection between the connecting shaft 341 and the worm gear 3442.

[0168] Figure 13 is an exploded view of the lifting bracket 32, the first connecting rod 342, and the second connecting rod 343 of the present application. The first connecting rod 342 is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft 341 and is also fixedly connected to the lifting bracket 32. For example, as shown in Figure 13, one end of the first connecting rod 342 has a mounting hole through which the connecting shaft 341 passes. The other end of the first connecting rod 342 is fixedly connected to the lifting bracket 32. A mounting groove 321 can be formed on the lifting bracket 32. A protrusion 3423 is provided at the other end of the first connecting rod 342. The protrusion 3423 is disposed in the mounting groove 321 to realize the connection between the first connecting rod 342 and the lifting bracket 32.

[0169] As shown in Figures 14 and 15, Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the connection relationship between the first link 342, the second link 343, the connecting shaft 341 and the rotating bracket 345 in the example of this application, and Figure 15 is an exploded view of Figure 14.

[0170] Referring to Figures 14 and 15, the linkage mechanism 34 of this application example may further include a rotating bracket 345, which is fixedly connected to the connecting shaft 341. For example, the rotating bracket 345 has a through hole 3451 through which the connecting shaft 341 passes, thereby connecting the rotating bracket 345 to the connecting shaft 341.

[0171] In some examples, as shown in Figure 16, an extended protrusion 3461 can be provided at the end of the pin portion 34422, and an embedding groove 3462 is provided on the rotating bracket 345. The protrusion 3461 is fixed in the embedding groove 3462. Since the connecting shaft 341 is fixedly connected to the pin portion 34422, the rotating bracket 345 and the connecting shaft 341 are fixedly connected. Thus, when the motor 33 drives the worm 3441 to rotate around the X direction, the rotating worm 3441 drives the worm wheel 3442 to rotate around the Y direction, thereby driving the connecting shaft 341 and the rotating bracket 345 to rotate around the Y direction.

[0172] Since the rotating bracket 345 is fixedly connected to the connecting shaft 341, and the first connecting rod 342 is relatively fixed to the rotating bracket 345, the first connecting rod 342 is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft 341. Thus, when the worm gear 3442 drives the connecting shaft 341 and the rotating bracket 345 to rotate, it will drive the first connecting rod 342 to rotate around the connecting shaft 341.

[0173] To improve the stability of the lifting bracket 32 ​​and the camera module 20 during vertical movement, as shown in Figure 15, the first connecting rod 342 includes a first branch 3421, a second branch 3422, and a connecting part 3425, which connects the first branch 3421 and the second branch 3422. The first branch 3421 and the second branch 3422 are arranged opposite to each other. The connection position between the first branch 3421 and the lifting bracket 32 ​​is on the first side, and the connection position between the second branch 3422 and the lifting bracket 32 ​​is on the second side, with the first and second sides facing each other. This allows the lifting bracket 32 ​​to move smoothly up and down along the optical axis under the action of the first connecting rod, improving the stability of the camera module's lifting and reducing the risk of jamming.

[0174] In some feasible structures, the first branch 3421, the second branch 3422, and the connecting part 3425 are integrally formed structural components.

[0175] As shown in Figure 15, the linkage mechanism 34 of this application example further includes: a second link 343, which is connected to the first link 342, and is fixedly connected to the lifting bracket 32. Thus, when the first link 342 drives the lifting bracket 32 ​​to move up and down, the first link 342 can drive the second link 343 to rotate, thereby driving the lifting bracket 32 ​​to move up and down.

[0176] In some feasible structures, to improve the stability of the lifting bracket 32 ​​and the camera module during vertical movement, as shown in Figure 15, the second connecting rod 343 may include a first branch 3431, a second branch 3432, and a connecting part 3433, with the connecting part 3433 connecting the first branch 3431 and the second branch 3432. The first branch 3431 and the second branch 3432 are arranged opposite to each other, with the connection point between the first branch 3431 and the lifting bracket 32 ​​located on the first side, and the connection point between the second branch 3432 and the lifting bracket 32 ​​located on the second side, with the first and second sides facing each other. This allows the lifting bracket 32 ​​to move smoothly up and down along the optical axis under the action of the second connecting rod, improving the stability of the camera module's lifting and reducing the risk of jamming.

[0177] Continuing with Figure 15, the first branch 3431, the second branch 3432, and the connecting part 3433 can be integrally formed structural components. The second connecting rod 3431, the connecting part 3433, and the second connecting part 3432 connected together can have a C-shaped structure.

[0178] Figure 15 shows one arrangement of the first link 342 and the second link 343.

[0179] In this example, the first link 342 includes a first branch 3421 and a second branch 3422, and the second link 343 includes a first branch 3431 and a second branch 3432. The first branch 3431 is positioned close to the first branch 3421, and the second branch 3432 is positioned close to the second branch 3422. Thus, the four branches have four connection points with the lifting bracket 32, namely connection points A1, A2, B1, and B2 as shown in Figure 15. Connection points A1 and B1 are located on the same side, for example, on the first side, and connection points A2 and B2 are located on the same side, for example, on the second side opposite to the first side. This application improves the stability of the camera module 20's vertical movement by using multiple links and multiple points to support the lifting bracket 32 ​​and the camera module 20.

[0180] In some examples, the connecting portion 3433 of the second link 343 may be located above the connecting shaft 341, the first branch 3431 of the second link 343 is located outside the first branch 3421 of the first link 342, and the second branch 3432 of the second link 343 is located outside the second branch 3422 of the first link 342. Figure 15 illustrates an exemplary connection structure between the second link 343 and the first link 342.

[0181] In Figure 15, the second link 343 is slidably connected to the first link 342. For example, a track groove 3434 can be formed on the second link 343, and the first link 342 has a slider 3424 that extends into the track groove 3434 and can slide along the track groove 3434. Thus, when the first link 342 rotates axially about the connecting shaft 341, the slider 3424 can slide along the track groove 3434, thereby driving the second link 343 to rotate axially about the connecting shaft 341. In other examples, a track groove can be provided on the first link 342, and a slider can be provided on the second link 343.

[0182] Figures 17 and 18 show schematic diagrams of the structure when the first link 342 and the second link 343 are in different positions.

[0183] In Figure 17, the camera module is located inside the housing and is in a non-shooting state. In this state, the second link 343 is in a horizontal position, and the slider 3424 located in the track groove 3434 is in position A1.

[0184] In Figure 18, the camera module is located outside the housing and is in shooting mode. In this mode, the second link 343 rotates from a horizontal position to an inclined position, and the slider 3424 located in the track groove 3434 slides from position A1 to position B1.

[0185] In the examples of Figures 17 and 18, positions A1 and B1 are closer to the connection part 3433 of the second link 343 in the optical axis direction of the camera module than position B1.

[0186] Figures 19 and 20 show schematic diagrams of the connecting shaft 341, the first connecting rod 342 and the rotating bracket 345, and the lifting bracket 32 ​​in different positions.

[0187] In Figure 19, when the lifting bracket 32 ​​is in the retracted position, the camera module is located inside the housing and is in a non-shooting state. In this state, the first connecting rod 342 is in a horizontal position and the rotating bracket 345 is located at position A2.

[0188] In Figure 20, when the lifting bracket 32 ​​is in the extended position, the camera module is located outside the housing and is in shooting mode. From Figure 19 to Figure 20, the rotating bracket 345 and the first connecting rod 342 rotate around the connecting shaft 341 along the P1 direction. The rotating bracket 345 rotates from position A2 to position B2, and the first connecting rod 342 rotates from the horizontal position to the inclined position. This causes the lifting bracket 32 ​​to rise from the retracted position to the extended position along the Z direction, so that the camera module extends out of the housing and is in shooting mode.

[0189] Figures 21 and 22 show schematic diagrams of the connecting shaft 341, the second connecting rod 343 and the rotating bracket 345, and the lifting bracket 32 ​​in different positions.

[0190] In Figure 21, when the lifting bracket 32 ​​is in the retracted position, the camera module is located inside the housing and is in a non-shooting state. In this state, the second link 343 is in a horizontal position and the rotating bracket 345 is located at position A2.

[0191] In Figure 22, when the lifting bracket 32 ​​is in the extended position, the camera module is located outside the housing and is in shooting mode. From Figure 21 to Figure 22, the rotating bracket 345 rotates around the connecting shaft 341 along the P1 direction and rotates from position A2 to position B2. The second connecting rod 343 rotates from the horizontal position to the tilted position, thereby driving the lifting bracket 32 ​​to rise from the retracted position to the extended position along the Z direction, so that the camera module extends out of the housing and is in shooting mode.

[0192] To improve the rotational stability of the second link 343, the second link 343 can be connected to the base 31. As shown in Figure 23, Figure 23 illustrates one connection structure between the second link 343 and the base 31.

[0193] Referring to Figure 23, in this example, a limiting groove 312 can be formed on the base 31, and a slide rail can be provided on the second connecting rod 343. The slide rail is located within the limiting groove 311, and the slide rail can slide along the extending direction of the limiting groove 311. Since the second connecting rod 343 can drive the lifting bracket 32 ​​to move up and down along the third direction Z, the limiting groove 311 in the example of Figure 23 can extend along the third direction Z.

[0194] Figures 23 and 24 show the structural schematic diagrams of the second link 343 in different positions.

[0195] In Figure 23, the lifting bracket 32 ​​is in a certain position. It can be assumed that when the lifting bracket 32 ​​is in this position, the camera module is located inside the housing and is in a non-shooting state. In this state, the slide rail located in the limiting groove 311 is in the first position.

[0196] In Figure 24, the lifting bracket 32 ​​is in another position. It can be assumed that when the lifting bracket 32 ​​is in this position, the camera module is located outside the housing and is in shooting mode. From Figure 23 to Figure 24, the slide rail slides from the first position to the second position above the first position, and the second link 343 rotates to another position to drive the lifting bracket 32 ​​to rise, so that the camera module extends out of the housing and is in shooting mode.

[0197] In some application scenarios, such as when the camera module is in the extended state, it may be subjected to external impacts, such as drops or collisions, which may cause the camera module to retract into the housing. In order to prevent the camera module from retracting and causing damage to other structural components, such as the worm gear transmission structure 344 in the example above, this application may include a buffer structure. When the camera module is subjected to external impacts, the buffer structure can be used to reduce the risk of damage to some structures, thereby improving the overall performance of the device.

[0198] Figures 25 and 26 illustrate an exemplary structure that can be achieved by a buffer structure. Figure 26 is a schematic diagram of the structure of Figure 25 without the base 31.

[0199] In this example, the buffer structure includes a torsion spring 40. When the camera module is impacted by an external force, the camera module and the lifting bracket 32 ​​retract inward toward the housing, thereby causing the first link 342 and the second link 343 to rotate. The torsion spring 40 prevents the rotating bracket 345 from rotating with the first link 342 and the second link 343, thus preventing the connecting shaft 341 from rotating and avoiding rotation of the worm gear transmission structure. In this way, the worm gear transmission structure can be protected.

[0200] The positional and connection relationships of the torsion spring 40 and other structural components are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0201] Figures 27 and 28 show exploded views of the torsion spring 40, the first link 342, and the rotating bracket 345, and Figures 27 and 28 are views from different perspectives.

[0202] The torsion spring 40 has a first end T1 and a second end T2. The first end T1 of the torsion spring 40 is connected to the first connecting rod 342, and the second end T2 of the torsion spring 40 is connected to the rotating bracket 345. For example, in Figure 27, a first insertion groove 3426 with an opening can be formed on the first connecting rod 342, and the first end T1 of the torsion spring 40 can extend into the first insertion groove 3426 through the opening. As shown in Figure 28, a second insertion groove 3453 with an opening can be formed on the rotating bracket 345, and the second end T2 of the torsion spring 40 can extend into the second insertion groove 3453 through the opening.

[0203] Returning to Figure 26, the rotating bracket 345 includes a bracket connecting part 3452 and a bracket fixing part 3454. The connecting shaft 341 passes through the bracket connecting part 3452 and the bracket fixing part 3454, and the bracket fixing part 3454 is fixedly connected to the connecting shaft 341. The first connecting rod 342 includes a connecting rod connecting part 3425. The connecting shaft 341 passes through the connecting rod connecting part 3425, and the connecting rod connecting part 3425 is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft 341. The connecting rod connecting part 3425 is disposed between the bracket connecting part 3452 and the bracket fixing part 3454.

[0204] That is, as shown in Figure 26, the torsion spring 40, the bracket connecting part 3452, the connecting rod connecting part 3425 and the bracket fixing part 3454 are all sleeved on the connecting shaft 341, and the torsion spring 40, the bracket connecting part 3452, the connecting rod connecting part 3425 and the bracket fixing part 3454 are arranged in sequence along the axial direction of the connecting shaft 341.

[0205] In some feasible structures, as shown in Figure 26, the link connection 3425 has an M1 surface opposite to the bracket connection 3452, and the bracket connection 3452 has an M2 surface opposite to the link connection 3425. The M1 surface can contact the M2 surface.

[0206] The torsion spring 40 can be in a compressed state in its radial direction, which means that the first end T1 and the second end T2 of the torsion spring 40 have opposite movements and a tendency to open relative to each other. This can give the bracket connecting part 3452, which is located next to the torsion spring 40, a tension F as shown in Figure 26. Since the bracket connecting part 3452 and the connecting rod connecting part 3425 are clamped between the torsion spring 40 and the bracket fixing part 3454, the tension F can fix the bracket connecting part 3452 and the connecting rod connecting part 3425 relatively. Furthermore, when the rotating bracket 345 rotates with the connecting shaft 341, it can drive the first connecting rod 342 to rotate together.

[0207] This can be understood as follows: When the lifting bracket and camera module need to rise, the motor 33 rotates, driving the worm gear transmission mechanism 344 to rotate, which in turn drives the connecting shaft 341 and the rotating bracket 345 to rotate. Since the torsion spring 40 applies tension F to the bracket connecting part 3452, the connecting rod connecting part 3425 also rotates around the connecting shaft 341, which in turn causes the first connecting rod 342 and the rotating bracket 345 to rotate together. The rotating first connecting rod 342 drives the second connecting rod 343 to rotate, which ultimately drives the lifting bracket and camera module to rise, so that the camera module is in shooting mode.

[0208] Figure 29 shows the positional relationship between the torsion spring 40 and the first connecting rod 342 when the camera module is in a non-shooting state. When the camera module is in a non-shooting state, the first end T1 of the torsion spring 40 is located in the first insertion slot 3426 of the first connecting rod 342. As the camera module rises, the first connecting rod 342 rotates around the connecting shaft 341, and the position of the first end T1 of the torsion spring 40 in the first insertion slot 3426 changes. For example, as shown in Figure 30, which shows the positional relationship between the torsion spring 40 and the first connecting rod 342 when the camera module is in a shooting state. When the camera module rises to the shooting state, the first end T1 of the torsion spring 40 can pass through the opening of the first insertion slot 3426 and be located outside the first insertion slot 3426.

[0209] In some examples, the connecting shaft 341 can be connected to the base 31. Referring back to FIG25, the base 31 may include a base connecting portion 313, on which the connecting shaft 341 is rotatably mounted.

[0210] To make the structure compact, as shown in Figure 25, the connecting rod connection 3425 and the base connection 313 can be located between the bracket connection 3452 and the bracket fixing part 3454. That is, along the axial direction of the connecting shaft 341, the torsion spring 40, the bracket connection 3452, the connecting rod connection 3425, the base connection 313, and the bracket fixing part 3454 are arranged in sequence.

[0211] In some application scenarios, such as when a camera module in its extended state is impacted by an external force, the camera module and the lifting assembly move into the housing, causing the first link 342 and the second link 343 to rotate. Since the first end T1 of the torsion spring 40 is connected to the first link 342, when the first link 342 rotates, it will trigger the torsion spring 40. For example, the torsion spring 40 can be twisted, switching from a compressed state to a natural state. That is, the first end T1 and the second end T2 of the torsion spring 40 do not have opposite movements and tend to open relative to each other. This causes the bracket connection 3452 and the link connection 3425 to separate. Consequently, the rotating first link 342 will not drive the rotating bracket 345 to rotate, and thus, the worm gear transmission structure will not move, and the meshing teeth or the motor will not be damaged.

[0212] When the first link 342 rotates, it triggers the torsion spring 40. This can be understood as follows: From Figure 30 to Figure 29, when the first link 342 rotates, the first end T1 of the torsion spring 40, which extends into the first insertion groove 3426, will abut against the first link 342. As the first link 342 continues to rotate, it will trigger the torsion spring 40, causing the torsion spring 40 to generate torque. The torsion spring 40 switches from a compressed state to a natural state, so that the bracket connection part 3452 will not exert pressure on the link connection part 3425, and thus the rotating first link 342 will not drive the rotating bracket 345 to rotate.

[0213] In this example, when the camera module in its extended state is subjected to an external impact, the force is not transmitted to the rotating bracket 345, and consequently not to the transmission structure and motor; it is only transmitted to the torsion spring 40. That is, the torsion spring 40 is used to block the transmission of force, acting as a buffer to protect other structural components.

[0214] To improve the stability of the entire device, as shown in Figure 31, the rotating bracket 345 includes a bracket connecting portion 34521 and a bracket fixing portion 34541, as well as a bracket connecting portion 34522 and a bracket fixing portion 34542. A connecting shaft 341 passes through the bracket connecting portion 34521 and the bracket fixing portion 34541, and also passes through the bracket connecting portion 34522 and the bracket fixing portion 34542. The bracket connecting portion 34521 and the bracket fixing portion 34541 are arranged close to each other, and the bracket connecting portion 34522 and the bracket fixing portion 34542 are also arranged close to each other.

[0215] The first link 342 includes a link connecting part 34251 and a link connecting part 34252, and the base 31 may include a base connecting part 3131 and a base connecting part 3132.

[0216] Torsion spring 40 is disposed between bracket connecting part 34521 and bracket connecting part 34522; connecting rod connecting part 34251 and base connecting part 3131 are disposed between bracket connecting part 34521 and bracket fixing part 34541; connecting rod connecting part 34252 and base connecting part 3132 are disposed between bracket connecting part 34522 and bracket fixing part 34542.

[0217] As shown in Figures 32 and 33, Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view along line B1-B2 of Figure 32. This example also includes a damping element 50, which can be sleeved on the connecting shaft 341 and can be disposed at the end of the torsion spring 40. The end of the damping element 50 facing away from the torsion spring 40 can abut against the base 31; for example, the end of the damping element 50 facing away from the torsion spring 40 can contact the base connecting portion 3132 of the base 31.

[0218] As shown in Figure 33, when the torsion spring 40 has tension F, the tension F can act on the damping member 50, which can make the damping member 50 abut against the base connection part 3132. In this way, whether the camera module is in shooting mode or not shooting mode, the structural components installed on the connecting shaft can be in a relatively stable state, rather than being able to wobble relative to the connecting shaft. This ensures that the first link, the second link, and the rotating bracket are in a stable state, thereby improving the shooting quality of the camera module.

[0219] In some structures, as shown in Figure 33, since there is a connecting rod connection 34252 and a bracket connection 34522 between the torsion spring 40 and the base connection 3132, in order for the damping member 50 to abut against the base connection 3132, a portion of the damping member 50 can pass through the connecting rod connection 34252 and the bracket connection 34522 to abut against the base connection 3132.

[0220] As shown in Figures 34 and 35, Figure 34 is an exemplary structural diagram of the camera module 20 in the extended state, and Figure 35 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 34 along line C1-C2.

[0221] As shown in Figures 36 and 37, Figure 36 is an exemplary structural diagram of the camera module 20 in the retracted state, and Figure 37 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 36 along line D1-D2.

[0222] In some electronic devices, to protect the camera module, as shown in Figures 34 and 35, a cover plate 60 may be included. The cover plate 60 surrounds the outer periphery of the camera module 20. The cover plate 60 can be part of the housing of the electronic device or a separate structure. In some examples, when the camera module 20 is in the extended state, a gap (also called a clearance) may exist between the camera module 20 and the cover plate 60, as shown in gap d in Figure 35. This gap not only allows external substances to enter the device but also affects its aesthetic appearance.

[0223] This application provides a structure that can cover the appearance gap when the camera module is in the extended state, and can be folded to avoid the camera module when the camera module is in the retracted state.

[0224] As shown in Figures 38 and 39, which are exploded views of the camera module 20, cover plate 60, and rotating component 70, Figures 38 and 39 are views from different perspectives.

[0225] In this example, a rotating component 70 is provided on the camera module 20. The rotating component 70 is rotatably connected to the camera module 20, as shown in Figure 37. When the camera module 20 is retracted, the rotating component 70 is folded and located inside the cover plate 60, as shown in Figure 35. When the camera module 20 is extended, the rotating component 70 also extends and covers the gap between the camera module 20 and the cover plate 60.

[0226] In some rotating connection structures, as shown in Figure 38, the rotating component 70 has a rotating shaft 701, and the camera module 20 has a shaft hole 201. The rotating shaft 701 is rotatably disposed in the shaft hole 201, so that the rotating component 70 is rotatably connected to the camera module 20.

[0227] Since the rotating component 70 is rotatably connected to the camera module 20, when the camera module 20 rises, some positioning structures can be set to ensure that the rotating component 70 rises along with the camera module 20. Using positioning structures can prevent the rotating component 70 from rotating relative to the camera module 20 when the camera module 20 rises.

[0228] As shown in Figure 39, the positioning structure may include a positioning block 202 and a positioning rod 702. The positioning block 202 is disposed on the camera module 20, and the positioning rod 702 is disposed on the rotating part 70. The positioning rod 702 is disposed on the positioning block 202. The dotted line in Figure 39 indicates the positional relationship between the positioning rod 702 and the positioning block 202.

[0229] Furthermore, when the camera module 20 rises, the positioning rod 702 set on the positioning block 202 can prevent the rotating part 70 from rotating relative to the camera module 20.

[0230] When the rotating member 70 rises together with the camera module 20 to the point where the camera module 20 is in shooting mode, the rotating member 70 needs to cover the gap between the camera module 20 and the cover plate 60. Therefore, when the rotating member 70 moves to the gap position, it cannot continue to rise with the camera module 20. It may also include a blocking structure. When the rotating member 70 moves to the gap, the blocking structure is used to prevent the rotating member 70 from rising along the optical axis of the camera.

[0231] In some examples, as shown in Figures 39 and 40, the blocking structure includes an extension protrusion 703 disposed on the outer edge of the rotating member 70; the cover plate 60 includes a top plate 601, and when the rotating member 70 is in the gap, the extension protrusion 703 is located below the top plate 601 and is used to contact the top plate 601.

[0232] In other words, by limiting the extension protrusion 703 by the top plate 601, the rotating part 70 can be prevented from continuing to rise with the camera module 20.

[0233] In some examples, as shown in Figure 38, the camera module 20 includes a mounting base 24 and a lens assembly 22, with the lens assembly 22 disposed on the mounting base 24; a rotating member 70 is disposed on the side wall of the mounting base 24, and the rotating member 70 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 24 via a rotating shaft 701, which extends through the side wall of the mounting base 24 into the mounting base 24; and a positioning block 202 and a positioning rod 702 can be disposed within the mounting base 24 to make full use of the internal space of the mounting base 24.

[0234] As shown in Figure 38, the side wall of the mounting base 24 has an inlay groove 241, and the rotating component 70 is located within the inlay groove 241. In this way, when the camera module is in the retracted state, the rotating component 70 located within the inlay groove 241 can avoid interference with other structural components.

[0235] In some examples, the rotating member 70 includes a first portion 70A, a second portion 70B, and a third portion 70C, wherein the third portion 70C connects the first portion 70A and the second portion 70B, and the first portion 70A and the second portion 70B are arranged opposite to each other; that is, the rotating member 70 has a C-shaped structure. In some structures, such as the camera module 20 shown in Figure 38, which has a quadrilateral structure, when setting the camera module 20, one side of the camera module 20 can be positioned close to the cover plate, and the C-shaped rotating member 70 can cover the gaps on the other three sides.

[0236] Both the first part 70A and the second part 70B are rotatably connected to the mounting base 24 via the rotating shaft 701, and the extension protrusion 703 can be set on the outer wall surface of the third part 70C.

[0237] The rotating component 70 in this application example can be installed not only in the camera device of the above example, but also in other camera devices. For example, the camera device may not include the buffer structure or the double linkage structure mentioned above.

[0238] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0239] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A camera device (10), characterized in that, include: Camera module (20); A cover plate (60) surrounds a receiving cavity, the camera module (20) is located in the receiving cavity, and there is a gap between the side wall of the camera module (20) and the cover plate (60); A lifting assembly (30) is provided, and the camera module (20) is connected to the lifting assembly (30). A rotating component (70) is disposed on the side wall of the camera module (20) and is rotatably connected to the camera module (20). When the lifting assembly (30) drives the camera module (20) and the rotating member (70) to move along the optical axis of the camera, the camera module (20) can pass through the receiving cavity, and the rotating member (70) can move to the gap and be used to cover the gap.

2. The camera device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The camera device (10) also includes a positioning structure. During the movement of the camera module (20) and the rotating member (70), the positioning structure is used to prevent the rotating member (70) from rotating relative to the camera module (20).

3. The camera device (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The positioning structure includes a positioning block (202) and a positioning rod (702). The positioning block (202) is disposed on the camera module (20), and the positioning rod (702) is disposed on the rotating part (70). The positioning rod (702) is located on the positioning block (202).

4. The camera device (10) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The camera module (20) includes a mounting base (24) and a lens assembly (22), wherein the lens assembly (22) is disposed on the mounting base (24); The rotating component (70) is disposed on the side wall of the mounting base (24), and the rotating component (70) is rotatably connected to the mounting base (24) through a rotating shaft (701). The rotating shaft (701) extends through the side wall of the mounting base (24) into the mounting base (24), and the positioning structure is disposed in the mounting base (24).

5. The camera device (10) according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The camera device (10) also includes a blocking structure, which prevents the rotating member (70) from rising along the optical axis of the camera when the rotating member (70) moves into the gap.

6. The camera device (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The blocking structure includes an extension protrusion (703) disposed on the outer edge of the rotating member (70); The cover plate (60) includes a top plate (601); When the rotating member (70) is located in the gap, the extending protrusion (703) is located below the top plate (601) and is used to contact the top plate (601).

7. The camera device (10) according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The camera module (20) has an inlay groove (241) on its side wall, and the rotating part (70) is located in the inlay groove (241).

8. The camera device (10) according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The rotating member (70) includes: a first part (70A), a second part (70B) and a third part (70C), wherein the third part (70C) connects the first part (70A) and the second part (70B), and the first part (70A) and the second part (70B) are disposed opposite to each other; Both the first part (70A) and the second part (70B) are rotatably connected to the camera module (20) via a rotating shaft (701).

9. The camera device (10) according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The lifting assembly (30) includes: Base (31); The lifting bracket (32) is disposed within the accommodating space enclosed by the base (31); Motor (33); A linkage mechanism (34) is provided, which connects the motor (33) and the lifting bracket (32). The linkage mechanism (34) includes: a connecting shaft (341), a first link (342), and a second link (343). The connecting shaft (341) is connected to the motor (33), the first connecting rod (342) is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft (341), the first connecting rod (342) is fixedly connected to the lifting bracket (32), the second connecting rod (343) is connected to the first connecting rod (342), and the second connecting rod (343) is fixedly connected to the lifting bracket (32). The motor (33) is used to drive the connecting shaft (341) to rotate, so as to drive the first connecting rod (342) and the second connecting rod (343) to rotate around the connecting shaft (341). The rotating first connecting rod (342) and the second connecting rod (343) are used to drive the lifting bracket (32) to rise or fall relative to the base (31) along the optical axis of the camera.

10. The camera device (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The output shaft of the motor (33) extends along a first direction, and the connecting shaft (341) extends along a second direction. The first direction is perpendicular to the second direction, and both the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular to the optical axis of the camera. The lifting assembly (30) also includes a transmission structure (344), through which the output shaft of the motor (33) is connected to the connecting shaft (341).

11. The camera device (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The transmission structure (344) includes a worm gear transmission structure, wherein the worm is connected to the output shaft of the motor (33).

12. The camera device (10) according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that, The second link (343) is connected to the base (31) through a limiting structure; The limiting structure includes a limiting groove (311) and a slide rail. The extending direction of the limiting groove (311) is parallel to the optical axis direction of the camera. One of the limiting groove (311) and the slide rail is disposed on the base (31), and the other is disposed on the second connecting rod (343).

13. The camera device (10) according to any one of claims 9-12, characterized in that, The second link (343) includes a first branch (3431), a connecting part (3433), and a second branch (3432); The connecting part (3433) connects the first branch (3431) and the second branch (3432), and the connected first branch (3431), the connecting part (3433) and the second branch (3432) have a C-shaped structure; Both the first branch (3431) and the second branch (3432) are fixedly connected to the lifting bracket (32).

14. The camera device (10) according to any one of claims 9-13, characterized in that, The connection point between the first connecting rod (342) and the lifting bracket (32) is located on the first side of the camera module (20). The connection point between the second link (343) and the lifting bracket (32) is located on the first side of the camera module (20).

15. An electronic device (01), characterized in that, include: Housing (08), the housing (08) having a lens hole (06); The camera device (10) as claimed in any one of claims 1-14, wherein the camera device (10) is located within the housing (08), and the lens hole (06) exposes a portion of the camera device (10).

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