Camera actuator and camera module

Abstract

A camera module according to an embodiment of the invention may comprise: a housing having a cavity; a lens carrier that is disposed in the cavity of the housing and moves in an optical axis direction; a first frame disposed inside the housing; a second frame disposed inside the lens carrier; a first driving unit including a first magnet and a first coil that are coupled to a first side surface portion of the housing and an outer side of the lens carrier facing the first side surface portion; a second driving unit including a second magnet and a second coil that are coupled to a second side surface portion of the housing and an outer side of the lens carrier facing the second side surface portion; and a third magnet coupled to an outer side of the lens carrier facing a third side surface portion of the housing. The second frame may include a first support part to which the third magnet is attached, the housing and the lens carrier may be made of a resin, and the first and second frames may be made of a metal material.

Description

Camera actuator and camera module

[0001] An embodiment of the invention relates to a camera actuator and a camera.

[0002] A camera is a device that captures subjects in photos or videos, and it is mounted on portable devices, drones, vehicles, etc. To improve image quality, a camera module or camera device may have an Image Stabilization (IS) function that corrects or prevents image shaking caused by user movement, an Auto Focusing (AF) function that automatically adjusts the distance between the image sensor and the lens to align the focal length of the lens, and a zooming function that increases or decreases the magnification of distant subjects through a zoom lens for shooting.

[0003] Meanwhile, as image sensors increase in pixel count, the resolution rises, causing the pixel size to decrease; consequently, as pixels become smaller, the amount of light received over the same period of time decreases. Therefore, higher-pixel cameras are more susceptible to image blur caused by hand shake resulting from slower shutter speeds in dark environments. A representative image stabilization (IS) technology is Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), which corrects motion by altering the path of light. According to general OIS technology, camera movement is detected via devices such as a gyro sensor, and based on the detected movement, the lens can be tilted or moved, or the camera module containing the lens and image sensor can be tilted or moved. When the lens or the camera module containing the lens and image sensor is tilted or moved for OIS purposes, additional space must be secured around the lens or camera module for this tilting or movement.

[0004] Meanwhile, actuators for OIS can be positioned around the lens. In this case, the actuator for OIS may include an actuator responsible for tilting about an axis orthogonal to the optical axis. However, if the actuator for OIS moves the lens excluding the image sensor, image distortion occurs. In particular, distortion is present at edges or corners. Additionally, since the image sensor and lens are separated and only one of them tilts, there is a problem in that high-angle shake correction is difficult.

[0005] An embodiment of the invention may provide a camera actuator and a camera module in which a frame is coupled inside at least one of a housing and a lens holder disposed inside the housing. An embodiment of the invention may provide a camera actuator and a camera module in which different magnets are coupled to the outside of a frame disposed inside the lens holder. An embodiment of the invention may provide a camera actuator and a camera module in which an AF magnet and a holding magnet are coupled to the outside of a frame disposed inside the lens holder.

[0006] An embodiment of the invention may provide a camera actuator and a camera module having a frame having a groove support that supports the interior of each of the guide grooves that guide balls disposed between a lens holder and a housing. An embodiment of the invention aims to provide a camera actuator and a camera module applicable to ultra-slim, ultra-compact, and high-resolution cameras.

[0007] A camera module according to an embodiment of the invention comprises: a housing having a cavity; a lens carrier disposed in the cavity of the housing and moving in the direction of the optical axis; a first frame disposed inside the housing; a second frame disposed inside the lens carrier; a first driving unit having a first magnet and a first coil coupled to the outer side of the lens carrier facing the first side portion of the housing; a second driving unit having a second magnet and a second coil coupled to the outer side of the lens carrier facing the second side portion of the housing; and a third magnet coupled to the outer side of the lens carrier facing the third side portion of the housing, wherein the second frame includes a first support member to which the third magnet is attached, the housing and the lens carrier are made of a resin material, and the first and second frames may be made of a metal material.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the invention, the first frame may include a through hole having a diameter larger than the diameter of the cavity on the bottom of the housing.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the invention, the housing includes first and second ball members disposed between the housing and the lens carrier, the housing includes first and second guide grooves spaced apart in a second direction on the inner side of the third side portion, the lens carrier includes third and fourth guide grooves corresponding to the first and second guide grooves of the third side portion, each of the first to fourth guide grooves extends in the direction of the optical axis, the first ball member is disposed between the first and third guide grooves, and the second ball member can be disposed between the second and fourth guide grooves.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the invention, the first frame may include first and second groove support members extending outwardly from the first and second guide grooves. The first and second groove support members may not be exposed on the surface of the first and second guide grooves. It includes a holding yoke member connecting the first and second groove support members to each other, wherein the holding yoke member faces the third magnet and may have a sensor hole inside. The second frame may include third and fourth groove support members extending outwardly from the third and fourth guide grooves. The third and fourth groove support members may not be exposed on the surface of the first and second guide grooves and may have a shape different from that of the first and second groove support members.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the invention, the second frame may include a second support member to which the first magnet is attached, and a third support member attached to the second magnet. The second support member is bent from the first support member and has a plurality of sides disposed on the outer side of at least three sides of the first magnet, and the third support member is bent from the first support member and may have a plurality of sides disposed on the outer side of at least three sides of the second magnet.

[0012] The camera actuator and camera module of the embodiment of the invention can suppress deformation of the lens holder and housing by combining a frame inside the lens holder and housing. In addition, by providing guide groove(s) that guide a ball member disposed between the lens holder and the housing, and groove support members that support each of the guide grooves, in different materials, damage or deformation of the guide grooves can be prevented. Accordingly, the optical reliability of the camera actuator and camera module can be improved.

[0013] The camera actuator and camera module of the embodiment can eliminate image distortion according to the operating mode and improve heat generation issues. The camera actuator and camera module of the embodiment can stably fix different magnets, such as an AF magnet and a holding magnet, using a frame placed within a lens holder. Additionally, since the frame within the lens holder exerts an attractive force with the magnets, electromagnetic forces can be reinforced or shielded. This improves the reliability of the camera actuator and camera module of the invention and can improve the reliability of portable electronic devices such as mobile communication terminals, smartphones, and tablet PCs, as well as mobile electronic devices such as vehicles, ships, or drones equipped with said camera module.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0015] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the actuator in Figure 1.

[0016] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the actuator of Figure 2 viewed from a different direction.

[0017] Figure 4 is a combined perspective view of the actuator of Figure 3.

[0018] Figure 5 is a partial perspective view of the housing of the actuator of Figure 4.

[0019] Figure 6 is a partial perspective view of the lens holder of Figure 4.

[0020] Figure 7 is a planar cross-sectional view of the actuator of Figure 4.

[0021] Figure 8 is a partial enlarged view of the actuator of Figure 4.

[0022] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the actuator of Fig. 4 on the AA side.

[0023] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the BB side of the actuator of Figure 4.

[0024] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the first and second frames, magnet, and ball member of FIG. 4.

[0025] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of Fig. 11 seen from a different direction.

[0026] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the first frame of FIG. 11.

[0027] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the second frame of FIG. 11.

[0028] Fig. 15 is another example of the first frame of Fig. 8.

[0029] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a portable mobile device having an actuator and a camera module of the invention.

[0030] FIG. 17 is a plan view of a moving body having an actuator and a camera module of the invention.

[0031] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to some of the described embodiments but can be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention, one or more of the components among the embodiments may be selectively combined or substituted. Furthermore, terms used in the embodiments of the present invention (including technical and scientific terms) may be interpreted in a meaning generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise. Terms used generally, such as those defined in advance, may be interpreted in consideration of their meaning in the context of the relevant technology.

[0032] Furthermore, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are intended to describe the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. In this specification, the singular form may include the plural form unless specifically stated otherwise in the text, and when described as "at least one of A and B and C (or more than one)," it may include one or more of all combinations that can be formed from A, B, and C. Additionally, in describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used. These terms are intended only to distinguish the component from other components and are not to limit the essence, order, or sequence of the component. Furthermore, when it is stated that a component is 'connected,' 'combined,' or 'joined' to another component, this may include not only cases where the component is directly connected, combined, or joined to the other component, but also cases where it is 'connected,' 'combined,' or 'joined' due to another component located between the component and the other component. When described as being formed or placed "above or below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or placed between the two components. Furthermore, when expressed as "above or below," it may include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction relative to a single component.

[0033] In addition, prior to describing the embodiments of the invention, the first direction may refer to the X-axis direction shown in the drawings, and the second and third directions may be the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction orthogonal to the first direction. For example, the second direction may refer to the Y-axis direction shown in the drawings, which is perpendicular to the first direction. Furthermore, the third direction may refer to the Z-axis direction shown in the drawings, and the third direction may be a direction orthogonal to the first and second directions. Additionally, the Z-axis direction, which is the third direction shown in the drawings, may refer to the optic axis direction or a direction parallel thereto.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 1, a camera module (1000) according to an embodiment may include a camera actuator (1001), a lens barrel (1002) coupled to the camera actuator (1001), and a cover (600). The cover (600) may be coupled to the lens barrel (1002) through an internal through hole (601), and the upper portion of the lens barrel (1002) may protrude. The cover (600) may be positioned around the camera actuator (1001). Accordingly, the cover (600) may be included in the camera actuator (1001). The lens barrel (1002) according to an embodiment is moved or transported by the camera actuator (1001) and may include lenses. The direction in which the lenses are transported may include an optical axis direction in which the centers of the lenses are aligned with the optical axis. In the following description, the camera actuator (1001) is described based on the lens or lens barrel. Furthermore, the camera actuator may be used interchangeably with a 'lens transfer device', 'lens driving device', 'lens moving device', etc. Furthermore, the camera module may be used interchangeably with a camera device, camera device, imaging device, imaging device, imaging module, etc.

[0035] The camera actuator (1001) according to the embodiment may be an AF (Auto Focus) and / or OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) actuator. For example, the actuator (1001) may be an actuator that implements both AF and OIS. Additionally, the camera actuator (1001) according to the embodiment may be a zoom actuator that additionally performs movement of an additional moving lens group. Furthermore, the camera actuator (1001) according to the embodiment may be a voice coil motor, a micro actuator, a silicon actuator, etc., and may be applied in various ways such as electrostatic, thermal, bimorphic, and electrostatic force methods, but is not limited thereto. In this embodiment, it is described as an actuator using a magnet or a coil. Also, OIS may be used interchangeably with terms such as hand shake correction, optical image stabilization, optical image correction, and shake correction.

[0036] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, a camera actuator (1001) and a camera device according to an embodiment may include a housing (100), a cover (600) coupled to the upper and outer sides of the housing (100), and a lens carrier (500) disposed inside the housing (100). For convenience of explanation below, the sides of the housing (100), the cover (600), and the lens carrier (500) may include first and second side portions (S1, S2) disposed on both sides of a second direction (Y), and third and fourth side portions (S3, S4) disposed on both sides of a first direction (X) that is orthogonal to the second direction (Y). The first to fourth side portions (S1, S2, S3, S4) may be sides of each component or sides of a camera module. Here, the optical axis direction is a Z direction or a third direction orthogonal to the first and second directions (X,Y), the first direction is the X-axis direction in the drawing, and the second direction is the Y direction in the drawing. The fourth side part (S4) is shown as a flat surface between the first and second side parts (S1,S2), but it may have a curved shape.

[0037] The hole (601) of the cover (600) penetrates through the upper portion and corresponds to the cavity (101) of the housing (100) and the opening (501) of the lens carrier (500). The opening (501) of the lens carrier (500) may be circular in shape. The housing (100) and the lens carrier (500) coupled to the housing (100) are disposed inside the cover (600). The cover (600) may be formed of a metal or non-metal material. The opening (501) of the lens carrier (500) is an area where the lens(s) or lens barrel (1002) within the lens carrier (500) are disposed. The cavity (101) of the housing (100) may be polygonal, for example, square, and may be connected to the bottom opening (105). A lens carrier (500) may be disposed in the area between the cover (600) and the housing (100). The housing (100) may be located at the bottom of the camera actuator (1001). A lens carrier (500) may be coupled within the cavity (101) of the housing (100). The lens carrier (500) is coupled along the optical axis direction within the housing (100) and may be moved along the optical axis direction.

[0038]

[0039] The lens carrier (500) is coupled to the cavity (101), and an image sensor and a filter unit (not shown) may be coupled to the bottom or inside of the bottom opening (105). The filter unit (not shown) is positioned between the last lens of the lens barrel (1002) and the image sensor. The image sensor may include a component capable of detecting incident light, such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor). The image sensor senses the light incident through the lens and the filter unit and converts it into an electrical signal. The filter unit may include an infrared filter. The filter unit may allow light of a set wavelength band to pass through and block other wavelength bands. The filter unit may be coupled to the bottom of the lens carrier (500). Additionally, a cover glass (not shown) to protect the image sensor may be placed on the surface of the image sensor. The center of the image sensor may be aligned with the lenses in the direction of the optical axis. The lens carrier (500) may move along the optical axis direction, or tilt or rotate in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. A detailed explanation thereof will be provided later. Also, the housing (100) may be a 'fixing part', 'fixing member', or 'fixing element' in the camera actuator (1000). That is, the housing (100) may not move or rotate in the optical axis direction or in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. Accordingly, components connected or coupled with the housing (100) may also not move or rotate in the optical axis direction or in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0040]

[0041] A substrate (950) may be included on the outer side of at least one or two side portions of the housing (100). The substrate (950) may be a driving substrate or an external connection substrate. The substrate (950) may be electrically connected to a driver chip or an external substrate. Accordingly, the plurality of pads (PD1) may be exposed on the outer side of the substrate (950), making it easy to connect to the outside. The substrate (950) may be folded along the sides of the housing (100) and adhered to the sides. The substrate (950) includes first to third sub-substrates (951, 952, 953) connected to each other, and the first sub-substrate (951) and the second sub-substrate (952) are connected to each other and may be placed on the third and first side portions (S3, S1) of the housing (100). The first and third sub-substrates (951, 953) are connected to each other and may be placed on the third and second side portions (S3, S2) of the housing (100). The second and third sub-substrates (952, 953) may be placed on opposite sides of the housing (100). The second and third sub-substrates (952, 953) of the substrate (950) may be placed on the outside of the coupling groove (102, 103) where the side of the housing (100) is open. The substrate (950) may be placed on the outside of the first to third side portions (S1, S2, S3) of the housing (100), and the fourth side portion (S4) of the housing (100) may not have a separate open area. The substrate (950) may be provided as a flexible substrate (FPCB).

[0042]

[0043] The camera actuator (1001) may include a plurality of driving units. The plurality of driving units may include a driving unit for AF and / or a driving unit for OIS. The plurality of driving units may be disposed on different sides of the housing (100). The plurality of driving units includes first and second driving units (810, 820, 830), and the first and second driving units (810, 820) are driving units for AF and / or OIS. The first driving unit (810) may be disposed inside the first side portion (S1) of the housing (100). The second driving unit (820) may be disposed inside the second side portion (S2) of the housing (100). The first driving unit (810) and the third driving unit (830) may be disposed on opposite sides in the second direction (Y).

[0044] The lens carrier (500) may be moved together or separately by the driving unit and may be defined as a moving unit. The camera module (1000) includes a fixed unit and a moving unit, the fixed unit includes a housing (100), and the moving unit may include a lens carrier (500) that moves or rotates according to the operation mode. The first driving unit (810) may move the lens carrier (500) up or down in the optical axis direction from the inside of the first side unit (S1) of the housing (100). The second driving unit (820) may move the lens carrier (500) up or down in the optical axis direction from the inside of the second side unit (S2) of the housing (100).

[0045]

[0046] At least one or both of the housing (100) and the lens carrier (500) may have a frame attached. A first frame (200) may be attached to the housing (100). The first frame (200) may be attached inside the housing (100). A second frame (300) may be attached to the lens carrier (500). The second frame (300) may be attached inside the lens carrier (500). The first frame (200) may be made of a material with higher strength than the material of the housing (100). The first frame (200) attached inside the housing (100) may be made of a material with higher heat resistance than the material of the housing (100). Accordingly, when the housing (100) is subjected to external impact and heat, the first frame (200) can suppress the reduction in strength of the shape and surface of the housing (100) and prevent deformation. The second frame (300) may be made of a material with higher strength than the material of the lens carrier (500). The second frame (300) coupled within the lens carrier (500) may be made of a material with higher heat resistance than the material of the lens carrier (500). Accordingly, when the lens carrier (500) is subjected to external impact and heat, the second frame (300) can suppress the reduction in strength of the shape and surface of the lens carrier (500) and prevent deformation.

[0047] The housing (100) may be formed from a resin material, such as synthetic resin or plastic material. The lens carrier (500) may be formed from a resin material, such as synthetic resin or plastic material. The first and second frames (200, 300) may be made of a metal material and may be selected from at least one or two alloys among, for example, sus, Al, Ti, Mg, Mn, Cu, Zn, and Si. The first and second frames (200, 300) may be made of a single layer metal or a multilayer metal. A low-friction coating layer may be formed on the surface of the first and second frames (200, 300). The first and second frames (200, 300) may have the same metal or different metals.

[0048]

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 3, 7 to 10, the first driving unit (810) may include a first magnet (M1) and a first coil (C1). The first magnet (M1) is positioned on a first side portion (S1) of the lens carrier (500), and a second support portion (330) is positioned on the first side portion (S1). The first magnet (M1) is attached to or bonded with an adhesive to the outside of the second support portion (330). That is, the second support portion (330) may be a metal plate inserted into the inside of the first side portion (S1) of the lens carrier (500). The second support portion (330) is part of the second frame (300).

[0050] The first coil (C1) is coupled to the first coupling groove (102) on the side of the housing (100) facing the first magnet (M1), that is, the first open area of ​​the first side portion (S1). The positions of the first magnet (M1) and the first coil (C1) can be interchanged. The second support portion (330) functions as a yoke having a magnetic material and can exert an attractive force with the first magnet (M1). The second support portion (330) can induce a magnetic field to strengthen or shield the magnetic force in a desired direction. The first driving portion (810) generates an electromagnetic force with the first magnet (M1) by means of power supplied to the first coil (C1), and can move the lens carrier (500) up or down in the optical axis direction by means of the electromagnetic force. As another example, the first magnet (M1) may be embedded in the lower part of the lens carrier (500), and the first coil (C1) may be placed at the bottom of the housing (100).

[0051] The second driving unit (820) may include a second magnet (M2) and a second coil (C2). The second magnet (M2) is positioned on the second side portion (S2) of the lens carrier (500), and a third support member (340) is positioned on the second side portion (S2). The second magnet (M2) is attached to or bonded with an adhesive to the outside of the third support member (340). That is, the second support member (340) may be a metal plate inserted into the inside of the second side portion (S2) of the lens carrier (500). The second support member (340) is part of the second frame (300).

[0052] The second coil (C2) is coupled to the second coupling groove (103) on the side of the housing (100) facing the second magnet (M2), that is, the second open area of ​​the second side portion (S2). The positions of the second magnet (M2) and the second coil (C2) can be interchanged. The second support portion (340) functions as a yoke having a magnetic material and can exert an attractive force with the second magnet (M2). The second support portion (340) can induce a magnetic field to strengthen or shield the magnetic force in a desired direction. The second driving portion (820) generates an electromagnetic force with the second magnet (M2) by means of power supplied to the second coil (C2), and can move the lens carrier (500) up or down in the optical axis direction by means of the electromagnetic force. As another example, the second magnet (M2) may be embedded in the lower part of the lens carrier (500), and the second coil (C2) may be placed at the bottom of the housing (100).

[0053] The first and second magnets (M1, M2) may be unipolar or bipolar magnets. Each of the first and second magnets (M1, M2) may be arranged in multiple numbers along the optical axis. A Hall sensor (not shown) may be placed in the internal space of each of the first and second coils (C1, C2). The Hall sensor is a position sensing sensor that can detect the position of the first and second magnets (M1, M2) and provide it to a driver (not shown). Accordingly, the position of the lens carrier (500) can be corrected.

[0054]

[0055] A movement guide member may be included to support and guide the movement of the lens carrier (500) in the optical axis direction by the first and second driving units (810, 820). The movement guide member may include at least one of a ball member and an elastic spring. The movement guide member may be provided in an area between the lens carrier (500) and the housing (100) or in an area facing each other. The movement guide member may include, for example, ball members (851, 853) and guide grooves (BG1, BG2, BG3, BG4). The ball members (851, 853) are arranged on both sides of the second direction (Y) and include a first ball member (851) and a second ball member (853). The first ball members (851) may be arranged in the optical axis direction in one or more, for example, one to five. The second ball member (853) may be arranged in the direction of the optical axis in one or more, for example, from one to six. The first and second ball members (851, 853) may be the same number or different numbers. At least one or both of the first and second ball members (851, 853) may have multiple balls, and any one of the multiple balls may have a relatively small size. A small-sized ball may be placed between large-sized balls. The first ball member (851) and the second ball member (853) may include a metal material. The interior of the first ball member (851) and the second ball member (853) may be made of a resin material, and the outer surface may be made of a metal material. Each of the first and second ball members (851, 853) is circular in shape. As another example, either the first or second ball member (851, 853) may be removed.

[0056] The guide grooves (BG1, BG2, BG3, BG4) may include first and second guide grooves (BG1, BG2) disposed on the inner side of the third side portion (S3) of the housing (100), and third and fourth guide grooves (BG3, BG4) disposed on the outer side of the lens carrier (500). The first and second guide grooves (BG1, BG2) are spaced apart in the second direction (Y), and the third and fourth guide grooves (BG3, BG4) are spaced apart in the second direction (Y). The first guide groove (BG1) and the third guide groove (BG3) may face each other in the first direction (X), and the second guide groove (BG2) and the fourth guide groove (BG4) may face each other in the first direction (X). The first ball member (851) is positioned between the first guide groove (BG1) and the third guide groove (BG3), and the second ball member (853) can be positioned between the second guide groove (BG2) and the fourth guide groove (BG4).

[0057] A third magnet (HM1) is disposed between the first ball member (851) and the second ball member (853). The third magnet (HM1) can be moved together with the lens carrier (500). The third magnet (HM1) can be fixed to the lens carrier (500). The third magnet (HM1) is disposed on a third side of the lens carrier (500) and may be a holding magnet to support the position of the lens carrier (500). The third magnet (HM1) may be disposed on the outside of the second frame (300). The third magnet (HM1) may be attached to the outside of the second frame (300) or bonded with an adhesive. One side of the third magnet (HM1) may be a unipolar or bipolar magnet.

[0058]

[0059] The first ball member (851) and the second ball member (853) may have a gap greater than the length (D1) of the third magnet (HM1) in the second direction (Y). The holding yoke (HY1) may be positioned opposite the first magnet (HM1) and on the outside of the housing (100). The holding yoke (HY1) may be positioned on the outside of the substrate (950) and on the outside of the first sub-substrate (951). The holding yoke (HY1) may exert an attractive force with the third magnet (HM1). The holding yoke (HY1) may be attached to the outside of the first sub-substrate (951) with an adhesive, or attached to a concave storage portion with an adhesive. That is, the outer storage portion of the first sub-substrate (951) may minimize the portion of the surface of the holding yoke (HY1) protruding outward. As another example, the holding yoke (HY1) may be connected to or bent from a part of the first frame (200) disposed within the housing (100).

[0060] Each of the first to fourth guide grooves (BG1, BG2, BG3, BG4) has an elongated length in the direction of the optical axis and has a triangular shape, a V-shape, an angular shape with a curved surface, or a U-shape. The combined shape of the first guide groove (BG1) and the third guide groove (BG3) provides a square shape, and the combined shape of the second guide groove (BG2) and the fourth guide groove (BG4) may provide a square shape. Either of the first or second guide grooves (BG1, BG2) may have a flat plane rather than a triangular shape and may come into contact with the ball member.

[0061] The first and second ball members (851, 853) guide the movement of the lens carrier (500) along the first to fourth guide grooves (BG1, BG2, BG3, BG4) when the lens carrier (500) moves up or down in the optical axis direction by the first and second driving units (810, 820).

[0062] A third side portion (S3) of the housing (100) is provided with a sensor hole (111), and the sensor hole (111) is positioned between the third magnet (HM1) and the holding yoke (HY1). The hall sensor (151) is positioned within the sensor hole (111), is positioned inside the first sub-substrate (951), and can be connected to the first sub-substrate (951). In the second direction (Y), the length of the holding yoke (HY1) may be greater than the length (D2) of the third magnet (HM1). In the third direction (Z), the length of the holding yoke (HY1) may be greater than the length of the third magnet (HM1). The holding yoke (HY1) may overlap with the first and second ball members (851, 853) in the first direction (X). Accordingly, the holding yoke (HY1) can press the first and second ball members (851, 853) in the first direction (X). The sensor hole (151) is equipped with a Hall sensor (151) corresponding to the third magnet (HM1), and the Hall sensor (151) is electrically connected to the substrate (950) and can detect the position of the third magnet (HM1) and provide it to a driver (not shown).

[0063]

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 7 through 14, the housing (100) has a first frame (200) inside, and the lens carrier (500) has a second frame (300) inside. The first frame (200) can reinforce the rigidity of the entire area or all sides of the housing (100). The second frame (300) can reinforce the rigidity of the entire area or all sides of the lens carrier (500). That is, the first frame (200) and the second frame (300) can be provided with a material, such as a metal material, which has higher mechanical properties, such as hardness and strength, compared to a plastic material. The first frame (200) may be a metal material with higher strength than the material of the housing (100). The second frame (300) may be a metal material with higher strength than the material of the lens carrier (500).

[0065] The first frame (200) may be composed of one or more frames inserted inside the housing (100) and may reinforce the rigidity of the bottom portion and guide grooves (BG1, BG2) of the housing (100). The second frame (300) may be composed of one or more frames inserted inside the lens carrier (500) and may reinforce the rigidity of each side of the lens carrier (500).

[0066] The first frame (200) and the second frame (300) can reinforce the external and / or surface rigidity of the guide grooves (BG1, BG2, BG3, BG4). The first frame (200) and the second frame (300) may be physically spaced apart from each other. A portion of each of the first frame (200) and the second frame (300) may extend to the surface of the ball guide members. The first frame (200) can reinforce the external and / or surface rigidity of the first and second guide grooves (BG1, BG2). The second frame (300) can reinforce the internal and / or surface rigidity of the third and fourth guide grooves (BG3, BG4).

[0067] The bottom of the first frame (200) may be positioned at a lower position than the bottom of the second frame (300). The top of the first frame (200) may be positioned at a higher position than the top of the second frame (300). For example, the top of the first frame (200) may protrude higher than the top of the first and second guide grooves (BG1, BG2) or be exposed on the upper surface of the housing (100).

[0068] The first frame (200) has a through hole (201) inside, and the through hole (201) corresponds to the opening (501) of the lens carrier (500) and may have a diameter larger than the diameter of the opening (501). The inner side of the first frame (200) may be spaced apart from the opening (501) without being exposed. The outer side of the first frame (200) may be spaced apart from the side portions (S1-S4) of the housing (100) without being exposed. The first frame (200) has a plurality of support pins (291, 292, 293), and among the plurality of support pins (291, 292, 293), the first and second support pins (291, 292) are spaced apart in the second direction (Y) and may be exposed to the lower outer side of the third side portion (S3) of the housing (100), and the third support pin (293) may be exposed to the fourth side portion (S4) of the housing (100). The spacing between the first and second support pins (291, 292) located on the third side portion (S3) may be greater than the spacing between the first and second guide grooves (BG1, BG2).

[0069] The first frame (200) has buffer coupling holes (H1) disposed in different regions, and the buffer coupling holes (H1) are spaced apart at positions corresponding to the vertices of a triangular shape, for example, two may be disposed in the region adjacent to the third side portion (S3) of the housing (100) and one in the region adjacent to the fourth side portion (S4). Each of the buffer coupling holes (H1) may be formed in the inner region of the first to third support pins (291, 292, 293), respectively. Buffers (131, 132, 133) are disposed in the buffer coupling holes (H1), and the gap between the first and second buffers (131, 132) among the buffers (131, 132, 133) may be larger than the gap between the third and fourth guide grooves (BG3, BG4) in the second direction (Y), and the third buffer (133) may be disposed between the through hole (201) and the third support pin (293).

[0070] The lower portion of each of the above buffers (131, 132, 133) is coupled to the lower portion of the buffer coupling hole (H1) and can be coupled to the housing (100). The upper portion of each of the above buffers (131, 132, 133) protrudes above the buffer coupling hole (H1) and can protrude toward the lower surface of the lens carrier (500) without being coupled to the housing (100). The above buffers (131, 132, 133) can mitigate and disperse external impact when an external impact is applied to the lens carrier (500).

[0071]

[0072] The first frame (200) has an outer groove support (210, 220), and the outer groove support (210, 220) may extend in the direction of the optical axis from the bottom of the first frame (200). A connecting portion (211, 221) is provided between the outer groove support (210, 220) and the first frame (200), and a coupling recess (CP1, CP2) is provided on both sides of the connecting portion (211, 221). The coupling recess (CP1, CP2) may be filled with the material of the housing (100). The above outer groove support portions (210, 220) are divided into a first groove support portion (210) and a second groove support portion (220), and may be spaced apart in a second direction (Y). The first and second groove support portions (210, 220) may be bent vertically from the first and second connecting portions (211, 221). The width of the first and second groove support portions (210, 220) in the second direction (Y) may be greater than the width of the first and second connecting portions (211, 221). The first and second groove support portions (210, 220) have polygonal sides and extend in a vertical plane. The two sides (K1, K2) of the first and second groove support members (210, 220) are arranged to face each other, and the internal angle between the two sides (K1, K2) may be greater than 90 degrees, for example, in the range of 95 to 140 degrees or in the range of 95 to 120 degrees. The internal angle between the two sides (K1, K2) of each of the first and second groove support members (210, 220) may be the same as the internal angle between the two sides of the first and second guide grooves (BG1, BG2). The internal angle between the two sides of the first and second guide grooves (BG1, BG2) may vary depending on the ball size. The first and second groove support members (210, 220) may have a gap greater than the length (D2) of the third magnet (HM1).

[0073] The first and second groove support members (210, 220) or their sides (K1, K2) may overlap with the first and second guide grooves (BG1, BG2) in the second direction (Y). The first and second groove support members (210, 220) or their sides (K1, K2) may overlap with the first and second ball members (381, 382) in the second direction (Y). The first groove support member (210) extends outwardly to the first guide groove (BG1), and at least a part or the whole of the first groove support member (210) is spaced apart from the inner surface of the first guide groove (BG1) without being exposed.

[0074] The first groove support member (210) has the same shape as the inner surface of the first guide groove (BG1) and can support the outer side of the first guide groove (BG1) to strengthen the rigidity of the first guide groove (BG1). The second groove support member (220) extends to the outer side of the second guide groove (BG1), and at least a part or the whole of the second groove support member (220) is spaced apart so as not to be exposed to the inner surface of the second guide groove (BG2). The second groove support member (220) has the same shape as the inner surface of the second guide groove (BG2) and can support the outer side of the second guide groove (BG2) to strengthen the rigidity of the second guide groove (BG2). The guide grooves (BG1-BG4) can be defined as ball rolling portions. As another example, at least a portion of the first and second groove support members (210, 220) may be exposed to the surface of the first and second guide grooves (BG1, BG2). For instance, if the first and second groove support members (210, 220) are arranged with alternating recesses and protrusions in a vertical direction, a portion of the protrusions may be exposed to a portion of the first and second guide grooves (BG1, BG2). As another example, a portion of both sides (K1, K2) of each of the first and second groove support members (210, 220) may be exposed to the surface of the first and second guide grooves (BG1, BG2). As another example, at least a portion of the first and second groove support members (210, 220) may have holes (not shown) that are coupled to the housing (100). Each of the first and second groove support members (210, 220) may have one or more holes on both sides (K1, K2) so as to be combined with a housing. As another example, as shown in FIG. 15, the first and second groove support members (210, 220) of the first frame (200) may be connected to each other by a holding yoke member (202), and the holding yoke member (202) connected to each other may face the third magnet (HM1) and may function as a yoke.The holding yoke portion (202) has a sensor hole (202A), and the sensor hole (202A) and the hall sensor (151) can face the third magnet (HM1).

[0075]

[0076] The second frame (300) includes first to third support members (301, 330, 340), wherein the first support member (301) faces the third side (S3) of the housing (100), the second support member (330) faces the first side (S1) of the housing (100), and the third support member (340) faces the second side (S2) of the housing (100). The third magnet (HM1) may be attached to or bonded to the first support member (301). For example, the third magnet (HM1) may be attached to or bonded to the outer surface of the first support member (301). The second support member (330) is bent from one end (311) of the first support member (301), and the third support member (340) is bent from the other end (321) of the first support member (301). The second and third support members (330, 340) may be bent at right angles from both ends of the first support member (301). The second and third support members (330, 340) may be opposed on both sides of the second direction (Y) of the opening (501) of the lens carrier (500).

[0077] The first support member (301) has an inner groove support member (310, 320), and the inner groove support member (310, 320) has a third groove support member (310) and a fourth groove support member (320), and the gap (D1) between the third groove support member (310) and the fourth groove support member (320) may be greater than the length (D2) of the third magnet (HM1). The third groove support member (310) is positioned on the outside of the third guide groove (BG3) and is spaced apart from the outer surface of the third guide groove (BG3). The fourth groove support member (320) is positioned on the outside of the fourth guide groove (BG4) and is spaced apart from the outer surface of the fourth guide groove (BG4).

[0078] The second gap (G2) between the third and fourth groove support members (310, 320) and the third and fourth guide grooves (BG3, BG4) may be larger than the first gap (G1) between the first and second groove support members (210, 220) and the first and second guide grooves (BG1, BG2). For example, the second gap (G2) may be greater than 1.2 mm, for example, in the range of 1.2 mm to 2 mm, and the first gap (G1) may be less than or equal to 1.2 mm, for example, in the range of 0.1 mm to 1.2 mm. Both sides (K3, K4) of each of the third and fourth groove support members (310, 320) may face each other or be parallel to each other. The third and fourth groove support members (310, 320) may have a shape different from the side cross-sectional shape of the first and second groove support members (210, 220). Each of the third and fourth groove support members (310, 320) may have two sides (K3, K4) overlap with the third and fourth guide grooves (BG3, BG4) in the second direction (Y). Each of the third and fourth groove support members (310, 320) may have two sides (K3, K4) overlap with the first and second ball members (381, 382) in the second direction (Y).

[0079] The third and fourth groove support members (310, 320) may overlap with the first and second groove support members (210, 220) in the first direction (X). The upper end of each of the third and fourth groove support members (310, 320) may be lower than the upper end of each of the first and second groove support members (210, 220). One end (311) of the first support member (301) may be bent outward from the third groove support member (310), and the other end (321) may be bent outward from the fourth groove support member (320). As shown in FIG. 14, support pins (391, 392) may protrude from both sides of the outer lower portion of the first support member (301) and may be exposed to the outer surface of the lens carrier (500).

[0080]

[0081] The second support member (330) is a first yoke positioned on the outside of the first magnet (M1) and amplifies or shields the electromagnetic force. The third support member (340) is a second yoke positioned on the outside of the second magnet (M2) and amplifies or shields the electromagnetic force. The first magnet (M1) may be adhered to or attached to the second support member (330). The second magnet (M2) may be adhered to or attached to the third support member (340). A portion of the second and third support members (330, 340) may be opposite to the first and second magnets (M1, M2) and the second direction (Y) of the opening (501) of the lens carrier (500). The area of ​​the outer surface of each of the second and third support members (330, 340) may be larger than the area of ​​the inner surface of each of the first and second magnets (M1, M2), so that the first and second magnets (M1, M2) can be stably supported.

[0082] The second support member (330) has a plurality of side members (331, 332, 333), and the plurality of side members (331, 332, 333) may be bent outward from the plate of the second support member (330). The plurality of side members (331, 332, 333) include a first side member (331) positioned on the outside of the first magnet (M1), and second and third side members (332, 333) positioned on the upper and lower sides of the first magnet (M1). The first side member (331) may face the outside of the first magnet (M1) or be spaced apart from the outer surface of the first magnet (M1). The outer end of the first side member (331) may be exposed to or spaced apart from the outer surface of the lens carrier (500).

[0083] In the case where the outer end of the first side (331) of the second support member (330) is spaced apart from the outer surface of the lens carrier (500) and spaced apart from the first magnet (M1), a portion of the lens carrier (500) may be filled in the area between the first side (331) and the first magnet (M1). The outer ends of the second and third sides (332, 333) may be exposed to or spaced apart from the outer surface of the lens carrier (500). In the case where the outer ends of the second and third sides (332, 333) are spaced apart from the outer surface of the lens carrier (500), a portion of the lens carrier (500) may be placed at the outer ends of the second and third sides (332, 333). The second and third sides (332, 333) may face the upper and lower surfaces of the first magnet (M1). The outer ends of the second and third sides (332, 333) may be exposed to or spaced apart from the outer surface of the lens carrier (500). The outer end of the second support (330) may be adjacent to the first side portion (S1) of the housing (100) and may not be exposed to the outer surface of the lens carrier (500), thereby preventing oxidation of the metal frame.

[0084]

[0085] The third support member (340) has a plurality of side members (341, 342, 343), and the plurality of side members (341, 342, 343) may be bent outward from the plate of the third support member (340). The plurality of side members (341, 342, 343) include a fourth side member (341) disposed on the outside of the second magnet (M2), and fifth and sixth side members (342, 343) disposed on the upper and lower sides of the second magnet (M2). The fourth side member (341) may face the outside of the third magnet (M3) or be spaced apart from the outer surface of the third magnet (M1). The outer end of the fourth side member (341) may be exposed to or spaced apart from the outer surface of the lens carrier (500). In the case where the outer end of the fourth side (341) of the third support member (340) is spaced apart from the outer surface of the lens carrier (500) and spaced apart from the second magnet (M2), a portion of the lens carrier (500) may be filled in the area between the fourth side (341) and the second magnet (M2). The outer ends of the fifth and sixth sides (342, 343) may be exposed to or spaced apart from the outer surface of the lens carrier (500). In the case where the outer ends of the fifth and sixth sides (342, 343) are spaced apart from the outer surface of the lens carrier (500), a portion of the lens carrier (500) may be placed at the outer ends of the fifth and sixth sides (342, 343). The fifth and sixth sides (342, 343) may face the upper and lower surfaces of the second magnet (M2). The outer ends of the fifth and sixth sides (342, 343) may be exposed to or spaced apart from the outer surface of the lens carrier (500). The outer end of the third support (340) may be adjacent to the second side portion (S2) of the housing (100) and may not be exposed to the outer surface of the lens carrier (500), thereby preventing oxidation of the metal frame.

[0086] The invention may be provided in a form in which a first frame (200) is integrally injection-molded within the housing (100) and a second frame (300) is integrally injection-molded within the lens carrier (500), and is not exposed from the surface of the guide grooves (BG1-BG4) arranged on both sides of the first and second ball portions (381, 382). Accordingly, the first and second frames (200, 300) serve to reinforce the guide grooves (BG1-BG4) and prevent deformation or damage to the guide grooves (BG1-BG4). Additionally, since the first and second frames (200, 300) are arranged on the outside of the magnets (M1, M2, HM1), they can amplify the electromagnetic force. In addition, the holding yoke portion (201) of the first frame (200) is formed within the housing (100) so that it is positioned further inward than the yoke position positioned on the rear side of the substrate (950), thereby allowing the distance to be closer to the holding magnet, and thus providing a larger preload.

[0087]

[0088] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal with a camera module applied according to an embodiment.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 16, the mobile terminal (1500) of the embodiment may include a camera module (1000), a flash module (1530), and an autofocus device (1510) provided on the rear. The camera module (1000) may include an image capturing function and an autofocus function. For example, the camera module (1000) may include the camera module disclosed above and may include an autofocus function using an image. The camera module (1000) processes still images or video frames obtained by an image sensor in a shooting mode or a video call mode. The processed image frames may be displayed on a predetermined display unit and may be stored in memory. A camera (not shown) may also be placed on the front of the mobile terminal body. For example, the camera module (1000) may include a first camera module (1000A) and a second camera module (1000B), and OIS may be implemented along with an AF function by the first camera module (1000A). The flash module (1530) may include a light-emitting element that emits light internally. The flash module (1530) may be operated by the operation of the camera of the mobile terminal or by the control of the user. The autofocus device (1510) may include one of the packages of surface light-emitting laser elements as a light-emitting part. The autofocus device (1510) may include an autofocus function using a laser. The autofocus device (1510) may be mainly used in conditions where the autofocus function using the image of the camera module (1000) is degraded, such as in close proximity of 10m or less or in a dark environment. The autofocus device (1510) may include a light-emitting part including a vertical cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) semiconductor element and a light-receiving part that converts light energy into electrical energy, such as a photodiode.

[0090] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a vehicle with a camera module applied according to an embodiment.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 17, a moving body (2) according to an embodiment of the invention is an example of a vehicle and includes a camera system, wherein the camera system includes an image generation unit (31), a first information generation unit (12), a second information generation unit (21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26), and a control unit (14). The image generation unit (31) may include a camera module disclosed in the embodiment that is placed in the vehicle and can generate a front image of the vehicle or an interior image of the vehicle by photographing the front of the vehicle and / or the driver. At least one of the first information generation unit (12) and the second information generation unit (21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26) may include a camera module disclosed in the embodiment.

[0092] Additionally, the image generation unit (31) can use the camera module to generate images of the vehicle's surroundings or the driver in one or more directions as well as the front of the vehicle. Here, the front image and the surrounding image may be digital images and may include color images, black and white images, and infrared images. Additionally, the front image and the surrounding image may include still images and video images. The image generation unit (31) provides the driver image, the front image, and the surrounding image to the control unit (14). Subsequently, the first information generation unit (12) may include at least one radar or / and camera placed on the vehicle and generates first detection information by detecting the front of the vehicle. Specifically, the first information generation unit (12) is placed on the vehicle and generates first detection information by detecting the position and speed of vehicles located in front of the vehicle, the presence and location of pedestrians, etc.

[0093] By using the first detection information generated by the first information generation unit (12), the distance between the vehicle and the vehicle in front can be controlled to be maintained at a constant level, and the stability of vehicle operation can be enhanced in specific cases that are pre-set, such as when the driver wants to change the driving lane of the vehicle or when reverse parking. The first information generation unit (12) provides the first detection information to the control unit (14). Subsequently, the second information generation unit (21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26) generates second detection information by detecting each side of the vehicle based on the front image generated by the image generation unit (11) and the first detection information generated by the first information generation unit (12). Specifically, the second information generation unit (21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26) may include at least one radar or / and camera placed on the vehicle, and may detect the position and speed of vehicles located on the side of the vehicle or capture images. Here, the second information generating unit (21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26) may be positioned on both sides of the front, side mirror, and rear of the vehicle, respectively. This vehicle camera system may be equipped with the following camera module and can provide or process information obtained through the front, rear, each side, or corner area of ​​the vehicle to the user to protect the vehicle and objects from automatic driving or surrounding safety.

Claims

1. Housing having a cavity; A lens carrier disposed in the cavity of the above-mentioned housing and moving in the direction of the optical axis; A first frame disposed inside the above housing; A second frame disposed inside the lens carrier; A first driving unit having a first magnet and a first coil coupled to a first side portion of the housing and to the outer side of the lens carrier facing the first side portion; A second driving unit having a second magnet and a second coil coupled to the second side portion of the housing and the outer side of the lens carrier facing the second side portion; and It includes a third magnet coupled to the outer side of the lens carrier facing the third side portion of the housing, and The second frame includes a first support member to which the third magnet is attached, The above housing and the above lens carrier are made of resin material, and The above first and second frames are camera modules made of metal.

2. A camera module according to claim 1, wherein the first frame includes a through hole having a diameter larger than the diameter of the cavity on the bottom of the housing.

3. In claim 1, the first and second ball members disposed between the housing and the lens carrier, and The above housing includes first and second guide grooves spaced apart in a second direction on the inner side of the third side portion, and The lens carrier includes third and fourth guide grooves corresponding to the first and second guide grooves of the third side portion, and Each of the first to fourth guide grooves above extends in the direction of the optical axis, and The first ball member is positioned between the first and third guide grooves, and The second ball member is a camera module disposed between the second and fourth guide grooves.

4. A camera module according to claim 3, wherein the first frame includes first and second groove support portions extending outwardly to the first and second guide grooves.

5. In claim 4, the camera module, wherein the first and second groove supports are not exposed on the surface of the first and second guide grooves.

6. In claim 4, the holding yoke portion connecting the first and second groove support portions to each other, A camera module having a sensor hole inside, with the holding yoke portion facing the third magnet.

7. A camera module according to claim 4, wherein the second frame includes third and fourth groove support members extending outwardly to the third and fourth guide grooves.

8. A camera module according to claim 7, wherein the third and fourth groove supports are not exposed on the surface of the first and second guide grooves and have a shape different from the first and second groove supports.

9. A camera module according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the second frame comprises a second support member to which the first magnet is attached, and a third support member attached to the second magnet.

10. In claim 9, the second support member is bent from the first support member and has a plurality of sides disposed on the outer side of at least three of the sides of the first magnet, and A camera module having a plurality of sides disposed on the outer side of at least three of the sides of the second magnet, wherein the third support member is bent from the first support member.

Images