Camera actuator and camera module comprising same

Abstract

An embodiment provides a camera actuator comprising: a housing; a first lens assembly and a second lens assembly, which is disposed in the housing and moves in the optical axis direction; a first driving unit for driving the first lens assembly and a second driving unit for driving the second lens assembly; a first sensor magnet disposed on the first lens assembly and a second sensor magnet disposed on the second lens assembly; and a first sensor facing the first sensor magnet and a second sensor facing the second sensor magnet, wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are disposed to overlap the intermediate point of a maximum movement range of the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly with respect to the optical axis direction.

Description

Camera actuator and camera module including the same

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

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

[0003] Conventionally, Hall sensing or encoder sensing methods were used to sense the driving of camera actuator lenses. In the Hall sensing method, a single magnet is used for both driving and sensing purposes, and accuracy decreases due to non-linear characteristics as the driving stroke lengthens. Additionally, the encoder sensing method requires moving the lens to a specific reference position to determine its absolute position, and errors in the absolute position occur depending on the error in the reference position. Therefore, a method to improve accuracy is required when sensing lens driving.

[0004] An embodiment provides a camera actuator capable of improving the driving stability of a lens assembly and a camera module including the same.

[0005] In addition, a camera actuator capable of accurately and quickly measuring the position of a lens assembly and a camera module including the same are provided.

[0006] The problem to be solved in the embodiments is not limited thereto, and may also include objectives or effects that can be identified from the means of solving the problem or the forms of implementation described below.

[0007] A camera actuator according to an embodiment comprises: a housing; a first lens assembly and a second lens assembly disposed within the housing and moving in the direction of the optical axis; a first driving unit for driving the first lens assembly and a second driving unit for driving the second lens assembly; a first sensor magnet disposed in the first lens assembly and a second sensor magnet disposed in the second lens assembly; and a first sensor facing the first sensor magnet and a second sensor facing the second sensor magnet, wherein the first sensor and the second sensor may be disposed to overlap with the midpoint of the maximum movement range of the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly with respect to the direction of the optical axis.

[0008] The first sensor and the second sensor are spaced apart in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, and when the first lens assembly is located in the middle of the range of movement in the optical axis direction, the first sensor overlaps with the first sensor magnet in the second direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction and the first direction, and when the second lens assembly is located in the middle of the range of movement in the optical axis direction, the second sensor may overlap with the second sensor magnet in the second direction.

[0009] The first driving unit may include a first driving magnet disposed in the first lens assembly and a first coil and a second coil facing the first driving magnet, and the second driving unit may include a second driving magnet disposed in the second lens assembly and a third coil and a fourth coil facing the second driving magnet.

[0010] It may include a third sensor that overlaps the first coil and the second coil in the direction of the optical axis, and a fourth sensor that overlaps the third coil and the fourth coil in the direction of the optical axis.

[0011] The first sensor and the second sensor may be positioned between the third sensor and the fourth sensor with respect to the optical axis direction.

[0012] The first coil and the second coil are arranged in the direction of the optical axis, the third coil and the fourth coil are arranged in the direction of the optical axis, the first coil and the third coil overlap in the first direction, the third sensor is placed in the inner hole of the first coil, and the fourth sensor can be placed in the inner hole of the fourth coil.

[0013] The third sensor may overlap with the center of the first coil with respect to the optical axis direction, and the fourth sensor may overlap with the center of the fourth coil with respect to the optical axis direction.

[0014] The above includes a substrate disposed on the outer side of the housing, and the first to fourth sensors may be disposed on the substrate.

[0015] The above substrate may include a first sub-substrate, a second sub-substrate, and a third sub-substrate disposed between the first sub-substrate and the second sub-substrate.

[0016] The first sensor and the second sensor may be disposed on the third sub-substrate, the third sensor may be disposed on the first sub-substrate, and the fourth sensor may be disposed on the second sub-substrate.

[0017] The third sub-substrate can be connected to the center of the first sub-substrate and the second sub-substrate with respect to the optical axis direction.

[0018] The arrangement direction of the positive electrode of the first driving magnet may be perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the positive electrode of the first sensor magnet.

[0019] The positive electrode of the first driving magnet is positioned in the first direction, and the positive electrode of the first sensor magnet can be positioned in the optical axis direction.

[0020] A camera actuator according to an embodiment comprises: a housing; a substrate disposed on the outside of the housing; a first lens assembly and a second lens assembly disposed within the housing and moving in the direction of an optical axis; a first coil driving the first lens assembly and a second coil driving the second lens assembly; a first sensor magnet disposed in the first lens assembly and a second sensor magnet disposed in the second lens assembly; a first sensor facing the first sensor magnet and a second sensor facing the second sensor magnet; and a third sensor disposed in an inner hole of the first coil and a fourth sensor disposed in an inner hole of the second coil, wherein the substrate comprises a first sub-substrate on which the first coil is disposed, a second sub-substrate on which the second coil is disposed, and a third sub-substrate connecting the first and second sub-substrates, and the first sensor and the second sensor may be disposed on the third sub-substrate.

[0021] The first sensor and the second sensor may overlap in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, and the third sensor and the fourth sensor may overlap in the first direction.

[0022] It includes a first driving magnet disposed in the first lens assembly and a second driving magnet disposed in the second lens assembly, wherein the first driving magnet may face the first coil and the second driving magnet may face the second coil.

[0023] The first driving magnet is positioned in the first direction from the first lens assembly, and the first sensor magnet may be positioned in the second direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction and the first direction from the first lens assembly.

[0024] According to an embodiment, a camera actuator capable of improving the driving stability of a lens assembly and a camera module including the same can be provided.

[0025] In addition, a camera actuator capable of accurately and quickly measuring the position of a lens assembly and a camera module including the same can be provided.

[0026] The various and beneficial advantages and effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above and may be more easily understood in the process of explaining specific embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, and

[0028] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, and

[0029] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view cut along AA' in FIG. 1, and

[0030] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and

[0031] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view cut along BB' in FIG. 4, and

[0032] FIG. 6 is a front view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, excluding the housing, and

[0033] FIG. 7 is a front view of a lens assembly of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and

[0034] FIG. 8 is a side view of a lens assembly of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and

[0035] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a substrate of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and

[0036] FIG. 10 is a front view of a substrate of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and

[0037] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the substrate and coil of a camera actuator combined according to an embodiment, and

[0038] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the substrate and coil of a camera actuator combined according to an embodiment, and

[0039] FIG. 13 is a front view of a camera actuator excluding the housing according to another embodiment, and

[0040] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the substrate and coil of a camera actuator combined according to another embodiment, and

[0041] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the substrate and coil of a camera actuator combined according to another embodiment, and

[0042] FIGS. 16 and 17 are graphs showing a measurement method of a sensor of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and

[0043] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal having a camera actuator applied according to an embodiment, and

[0044] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a vehicle with a camera actuator applied according to an embodiment.

[0045] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0046] 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.

[0047] In addition, terms used in the embodiments of the present invention (including technical and scientific terms) may be interpreted in a sense that is generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise. Terms that are commonly used, such as terms defined in advance, may be interpreted in consideration of their meaning in the context of the relevant technology.

[0048] Furthermore, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are for the purpose of describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0049] 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.

[0050] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used to describe the components of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0051] These terms are intended merely to distinguish a component from other components and are not limited by the nature, order, sequence, etc., of the said component.

[0052] And, where it is stated that a component is 'connected', 'combined', or 'joined' to another component, this may include not only cases where the component is directly connected, combined, or joined to the other component, but also cases where it is 'connected', 'combined', or 'joined' due to another component located between the component and the other component.

[0053] Furthermore, when described as being formed or placed "above or below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or placed between the two components. Additionally, when expressed as "above or below," it may include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction relative to a single component.

[0054] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a camera module according to an embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view cut along AA' in FIG. 1.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a camera module (1) according to an embodiment may consist of a cover (CV), an OIS actuator (100), a camera actuator (1000), and a circuit board (200).

[0056] The cover (CV) can cover the OIS actuator (100) and / or the camera actuator (1000). The coupling force between the OIS actuator (100) and the camera actuator (1000) can be improved by the cover (CV).

[0057] Furthermore, the cover (CV) may be made of a material that performs electromagnetic shielding. Accordingly, the OIS actuator (100) and camera actuator (1000) inside the cover (CV) can be easily protected.

[0058] In an example, the OIS actuator (100) can change the path of light. In an example, the OIS actuator (100) can change the path of light vertically through an internal optical element (e.g., a mirror or a prism). With this configuration, even if the thickness of the mobile terminal is reduced, a lens configuration larger than the thickness of the mobile terminal can be placed within the mobile terminal through the change of the light path, so that magnification, autofocus (AF), and OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) functions can be performed.

[0059] The OIS actuator (100) can change the optical path from the second direction to the third direction.

[0060] Additionally, the OIS actuator (100) may include a lens disposed in a predetermined lens barrel (not shown). For example, the lens may include a fixed focal length lens. Such a fixed focal length lens may also be referred to as a “single focal length lens” or a “single lens.”

[0061] The camera actuator (1000) can be positioned at the rear end of the OIS actuator (100). The camera actuator (1000) can be combined with the OIS actuator (100). And the combination between them can be achieved in various ways.

[0062] Additionally, the camera actuator (1000) may be a zoom actuator or an AF (Auto Focus) actuator. For example, the camera actuator (1000) may support one or more lenses and move the lenses according to a control signal from a predetermined control unit to perform an auto-focusing function or a zoom function.

[0063] The circuit board (200) may be placed at the rear end of the camera actuator (1000). The circuit board (200) may be electrically connected to the camera actuator (1000) and the OIS actuator (100). Additionally, there may be multiple circuit boards (200).

[0064] This circuit board (200) is connected to the housing of the camera actuator (1000), and an image sensor may be provided. Furthermore, a base part including a filter may be mounted on the circuit board (200).

[0065] The camera module according to the embodiment may consist of a single or multiple camera modules. For example, the multiple camera modules may include a first camera module and a second camera module. Additionally, as described above, the term "camera module" may be used interchangeably with "camera device," "camera device," "imaging device," "imaging module," "imaging apparatus," etc.

[0066] And the first camera module may include a single or multiple actuators. For example, the first camera module may include an OIS actuator (100) and a camera actuator (1000).

[0067] The second camera module may be disposed in a predetermined housing (not shown) and may include an actuator (not shown) capable of driving a lens portion. The actuator may be a voice coil motor, a micro actuator, a silicon actuator, etc., and may be applied in various ways such as electrostatic, thermal, bimorphic, and electrostatic force methods, but is not limited thereto. In addition, in this specification, the camera actuator may be referred to as an actuator, etc. Furthermore, a camera module composed of a plurality of camera modules may be mounted in various electronic devices such as mobile terminals.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 3, the camera module according to the embodiment may include an OIS actuator (100) that performs an OIS function and a camera actuator (1000) that performs a zooming function and an AF function.

[0069] Light can be incident into the camera module through an aperture region located on the upper surface of the OIS actuator (100). That is, light is incident into the interior of the OIS actuator (100) along the optical axis direction (e.g., Y-axis direction), and the light path can be changed to a direction perpendicular to the optical member (e.g., Z-axis direction). Then, the light passes through the camera actuator (1000) and can be incident on an image sensor located at one end of the camera actuator (1000) (PATH).

[0070] In this specification, the bottom surface refers to one side in the first direction. The first direction is the X-axis direction in the drawing and may be used interchangeably with the second axis direction, etc. The second direction is the Y-axis direction in the drawing and may be used interchangeably with the first axis direction, etc. The second direction is a direction perpendicular to the first direction. Additionally, the third direction is the Z-axis direction in the drawing and may be used interchangeably with the third axis direction, etc. It is a direction perpendicular to both the first direction and the second direction. Here, the third direction (Z-axis direction) corresponds to the direction of the optical axis, and the first direction (X-axis direction) and the second direction (Y-axis direction) are directions perpendicular to the optical axis. Furthermore, in the description of the camera actuator (1000) below, the optical axis direction corresponds to the optical path and is the third direction (Z-axis direction), and the description below is based on this.

[0071] And with this configuration, the camera module according to the embodiment can improve the spatial limitations of the OIS actuator and the camera actuator by changing the light path. That is, the camera module according to the embodiment can expand the light path while minimizing the thickness of the camera module in response to the change in the light path. Furthermore, it should be understood that the camera actuator can provide a high range of magnification by controlling focus, etc., in the expanded light path.

[0072] In addition, the camera module according to the embodiment can implement OIS by controlling the optical path through an OIS actuator, thereby minimizing the occurrence of decent or tilt phenomena and producing optimal optical characteristics.

[0073] Furthermore, the camera actuator (1000) may include an optical system and a lens driving unit. For example, the camera actuator (1000) may have at least one of a first lens assembly, a second lens assembly, a third lens assembly, and a guide pin disposed therein.

[0074] Additionally, the camera actuator (1000) is equipped with a coil and a magnet to perform a high-magnification zooming function.

[0075] For example, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly may be moving lenses that move via coils, magnets, and guide pins, and the third lens assembly (not shown) may be a fixed lens, but is not limited thereto. For example, the third lens assembly may perform the function of a focuser that forms an image of light at a specific location, and the second lens assembly may perform the function of a variationator that re-forms the image formed by the third lens assembly (focuser) at a different location. Meanwhile, the second lens assembly may be in a state where the magnification changes significantly due to a large change in the distance to the subject or the image distance, and the second lens assembly (variator) may play an important role in the change of focal length or magnification of the optical system. Meanwhile, the image formed by the second lens assembly (variator) may differ slightly depending on the location. Accordingly, the first lens assembly may perform a position compensation function for the image formed by the variationator. For example, the first lens assembly can perform the function of a compensator that accurately forms the image formed by the second lens assembly, which is a variable lens, at the actual image sensor location. For example, the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly can be driven by electromagnetic force resulting from the interaction between a coil and a magnet.

[0076] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view cut along BB' in FIG. 4.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, a camera actuator (1000) according to an embodiment may include a housing (1100), a first lens assembly (1200), a second lens assembly (1300), a substrate (1400), a driving unit (1500), a magnet unit (M), a coil unit (C), a sensor unit (S), and a housing cover (1600).

[0078] The housing (1100) may form the outer wall of the camera actuator (1000). A housing cover (1600) may be disposed on one side of the housing (1100). The housing (1100) may include a first lens assembly (1200), a second lens assembly (1300), a magnet part (M), a coil part (C), a sensor part (S), and a magnet yoke. The coil part (C) and a substrate (1400) may be disposed on the side parallel to the optical axis direction of the housing (1100). The side perpendicular to the optical axis direction of the housing (1100) may include an opening. A substrate (1400) may be disposed on the outside of the housing (1100).

[0079] The first lens assembly (1200) and the second lens assembly (1300) may be moving lenses that move via a coil, a magnet, and a guide pin. The second lens assembly (1300) may perform the function of a variationator that re-images the image formed by focusing light to another location. Meanwhile, the second lens assembly (1300) may be in a state where the magnification change is large because the distance to the subject or the image distance has changed significantly, and the second lens assembly (1300), which acts as a variationator, may play an important role in the change of focal length or magnification of the optical system. Meanwhile, the image formed by the second lens assembly (1300), which acts as a variationator, may differ slightly depending on the location. Accordingly, the first lens assembly (1200) may perform a position compensation function for the image formed by the variationator. For example, the first lens assembly (1200) can perform the function of a compensator that accurately forms an image formed by the second lens assembly (1300), which is a variable lens, at the actual image sensor location. For example, the first lens assembly (1200) and the second lens assembly (1300) can be driven by electromagnetic force resulting from the interaction between a coil and a magnet.

[0080] The first lens assembly (1200) and the second lens assembly (1300) may be placed inside the housing (1100). The first lens assembly (1200) and the second lens assembly (1300) may move along the optical axis direction inside the housing (1100) by means of a magnet portion (M), a magnet yoke, and a coil portion (C). The first lens assembly (1200) and the second lens assembly (1300) may be placed spaced apart from each other along the optical axis direction. The first lens assembly (1200) and the second lens assembly (1300) may partially overlap with the housing cover (1600) in the optical axis direction.

[0081] The first lens assembly (1200) can be coupled to the first magnet yoke. Accordingly, the first lens assembly (1200) can be driven by an electromagnetic force acting on a first driving magnet (M1) coupled to the first magnet yoke. The second lens assembly (1300) can be coupled to the second magnet yoke. Accordingly, the second lens assembly (1300) can be driven by an electromagnetic force acting on a second driving magnet (M2) coupled to the second magnet yoke.

[0082] A substrate (1400) may be placed in a housing (1100). A substrate (1400) may be placed on the outside of the housing (1100). A coil section (C), a sensor section (S), and a driver IC (not shown) may be placed on the substrate (1400). A coil section (C), a sensor section (S), and a driver IC may be placed on the inside of the substrate (1400). The substrate (1400) may fix the coil section (C), the sensor section (S), and the driver IC. The substrate (1400) may transmit information of an optical signal from the driver IC to the coil section (C). The substrate (1400) may include a first sub-substrate placed on the first side of the housing (1100), a second sub-substrate placed on the second side of the housing (1100), and a third sub-substrate placed on the third side of the housing (1100).

[0083] The driving unit (1500) can drive the first lens assembly (1200) and the second lens assembly (1300). The driving unit (1500) can move the first lens assembly (1200) and the second lens assembly (1300) in the direction of the optical axis. The driving unit (1500) may include a first driving unit that drives the first lens assembly (1200) and a second driving unit that drives the second lens assembly (1300). The first driving unit may be positioned adjacent to the first lens assembly (1200), and the second driving unit may be positioned adjacent to the second lens assembly (1300). The driving unit (1500) may include a driving magnet and a coil. The driving magnet may be positioned on a magnet yoke positioned on the side of the lens assembly. The coil may be positioned on the inner side of the substrate and face the driving magnet. The first driving unit may include a first driving magnet, a first coil, and a second coil. The second driving unit may include a second driving magnet, a third coil, and a fourth coil. The driving unit (1500) can move the lens assembly in the direction of the optical axis through the electromagnetic force of the driving magnet and the coil.

[0084] The coil section (C) may include first to fourth coils (C1, C2, C3, C4). The first to fourth coils (C1, C2, C3, C4) may be disposed on a substrate (1400). Specifically, the first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) may be disposed on a first sub-substrate (1410), and the third coil (C3) and the fourth coil (C4) may be disposed on a second sub-substrate (1420). The first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) may be disposed in the direction of the optical axis. Additionally, the third coil (C3) and the fourth coil (C4) may be disposed in the direction of the optical axis. The first coil (C1) and the third coil (C3) may overlap in the first direction, and the second coil (C2) and the fourth coil (C4) may overlap in the first direction. The coil portion (C) can drive the lens assembly in the direction of the optical axis through interaction with the driving magnet.

[0085] The housing cover (1600) can be fixedly positioned on one side of the housing (1100). The housing cover (1600) can overlap with the housing (1100) in the optical axis direction. The housing cover (1600) can improve adhesion by widening the adhesion surface area of ​​the OIS actuator and the camera actuator (1000). The housing cover (1600) can partially overlap with the first lens assembly (1200) and the second lens assembly (1300) in the optical axis direction.

[0086] FIG. 6 is a front view of a camera actuator according to an embodiment excluding the housing, FIG. 7 is a front view of a lens assembly of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, and FIG. 8 is a side view of a lens assembly of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, the camera actuator may include a first driving magnet (M1), a second driving magnet (M2), a first sensor magnet (M3), and a second sensor magnet (M4). The first driving magnet (M1), the second driving magnet (M2), the first sensor magnet (M3), and the second sensor magnet (M4) may be included in the magnet portion.

[0088] The first driving magnet (M1) and the second driving magnet (M2) may be positioned in a first direction on the side of the lens assembly. The first driving magnet (M1) may be positioned on the side of the first lens assembly (1200). The first driving magnet (M1) may be positioned between the first lens assembly (1200) and the first or second coil (C1, C2). The first driving magnet (M1) may be fixed by a first magnet yoke (1210) positioned on the side of the first lens assembly (1200). The positive terminal of the first driving magnet (M1) may be positioned in a first direction. The first driving magnet (M1) may extend in the direction of the optical axis. The second driving magnet (M2) may be positioned on the side of the second lens assembly (1300). The second driving magnet (M2) may be positioned between the second lens assembly (1300) and the third or fourth coil (C3, C4). The second driving magnet (M2) may be secured by a second magnet yoke (1310) positioned on the side of the second lens assembly (1300). The positive terminal of the second driving magnet (M2) may be positioned in the first direction. The second driving magnet (M2) may extend in the direction of the optical axis.

[0089] The first sensor magnet (M3) and the second sensor magnet (M4) may each be a magnet for sensing the first sensor and the second sensor. The first sensor and the second sensor may sense the position of the lens assembly by sensing the first sensor magnet (M3) and the second sensor magnet (M4), respectively. The first sensor magnet (M3) and the second sensor magnet (M4) may be placed in the lens assembly.

[0090] The first sensor magnet (M3) may be positioned on the side of the first lens assembly (1200). The first sensor magnet (M3) may be positioned in a second direction on the side of the first lens assembly (1200). The first sensor magnet (M3) may be positioned on different sides of the first driving magnet (M1) and the first lens assembly (1200). The first sensor magnet (M3) may be positioned in a direction perpendicular to the first driving magnet (M1). The positive terminals of the first sensor magnet (M3) may be positioned alternately and repeatedly in the direction of the optical axis. The positioning direction of the positive terminals of the first sensor magnet (M3) may be perpendicular to the positioning direction of the positive terminals of the first driving magnet (M1). The first sensor magnet (M3) may extend in the direction of the optical axis. The first sensor magnet (M3) may be opposite to the first sensor.

[0091] The second sensor magnet (M4) may be positioned on the side of the second lens assembly (1300). The second sensor magnet (M4) may be positioned in a second direction on the side of the second lens assembly (1300). The second sensor magnet (M3) may be positioned on different sides of the second driving magnet (M2) and the second lens assembly (1300). The second sensor magnet (M4) may be positioned in a direction perpendicular to the second driving magnet (M2). The positive terminals of the second sensor magnet (M4) may be positioned alternately and repeatedly in the direction of the optical axis. The positioning direction of the positive terminals of the second sensor magnet (M4) may be perpendicular to the positioning direction of the positive terminals of the second driving magnet (M2). The second sensor magnet (M4) may extend in the direction of the optical axis. The second sensor magnet (M4) may be opposite to the second sensor. The second sensor magnet (M4) and the first sensor magnet (M3) can be positioned in the same direction relative to the lens assembly.

[0092] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a substrate of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, FIG. 10 is a front view of a substrate of a camera actuator according to an embodiment, FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a substrate of a camera actuator and a coil combined according to an embodiment, and FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a substrate of a camera actuator and a coil combined according to an embodiment.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 6, 9 to 12, the substrate (1400) of the camera actuator may include a first sub-substrate (1410), a second sub-substrate (1420), and a third sub-substrate (1430).

[0094] The substrate (1400) may be composed of a first sub-substrate (1410), a second sub-substrate (1420), and a third sub-substrate (1430). The first sub-substrate (1410) and the second sub-substrate (1420) may be substrates disposed on both sides of the housing. The first sub-substrate (1410) and the second sub-substrate (1420) may be disposed side by side, spaced apart in a first direction. The first sub-substrate (1410) and the second sub-substrate (1420) may be disposed perpendicular to the first direction. The first sub-substrate (1410) and the second sub-substrate (1420) may extend in the direction of the optical axis.

[0095] Additionally, the third sub-substrate (1430) may be positioned between the first sub-substrate (1410) and the second sub-substrate (1420). The third sub-substrate (1430) may connect the first sub-substrate (1410) and the second sub-substrate (1420) between the first sub-substrate (1410) and the second sub-substrate (1420). The third sub-substrate (1430) may be positioned perpendicular to the second direction. The third sub-substrate (1430) may extend in the first direction. The third sub-substrate (1430) may overlap with the centers of the first sub-substrate (1410) and the second sub-substrate (1420) with respect to the optical axis direction. That is, the third sub-substrate (1430) may be connected to the centers of the first sub-substrate (1410) and the second sub-substrate (1420) with respect to the optical axis direction. Accordingly, the first and second sensors (S1, S2) placed on the third sub-substrate (1430) can be positioned at the center of the movement stroke in the direction of the optical axis of the lens assembly.

[0096] The camera actuator may include first to fourth sensors (S1, S2, S3, S4). The first to fourth sensors (S1, S2, S3, S4) may be included in the sensor unit (S).

[0097] The first to fourth sensors (S1, S2, S3, S4) may be placed on the substrate (1400). The first to fourth sensors (S1, S2, S3, S4) may sense the movement of the lens assembly. The first to fourth sensors (S1, S2, S3, S4) may sense the movement of the lens assembly by sensing the magnetic force of a magnet placed on the lens assembly.

[0098] The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) can sense sensor magnets. The first sensor (S1) can sense the first sensor magnet (M3), and the second sensor (S2) can sense the second sensor magnet (M4). The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may include position sensors. The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may include GMR sensors, TMR sensors, optical sensors, capacitive sensors, and inductive sensors.

[0099] The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be placed on the third sub-substrate (1430). The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be placed on the third sub-substrate (1430) so as to face the lens assembly. That is, the first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be placed on the inner side facing the housing of the third sub-substrate (1430). The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be placed spaced apart by a certain distance in a first direction. The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be placed spaced apart from the first sub-substrate (1410) and the second sub-substrate (1420), respectively, in a first direction. The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may face the sensor magnet of the lens assembly. The first sensor (S1) may be positioned opposite the first sensor magnet (M3), and the second sensor (S2) may be positioned opposite the second sensor magnet (M4). The first sensor (S1) may be located at the same point as the first sensor magnet (M3) with respect to the first direction. Additionally, the second sensor (S2) may be located at the same point as the second sensor magnet (M4) with respect to the first direction. As the first lens assembly (1200) moves in the direction of the optical axis, the first sensor (S1) may overlap with the first sensor magnet (M3) in the second direction. Additionally, as the second lens assembly (1300) moves in the direction of the optical axis, the second sensor (S2) may overlap with the second sensor magnet (M4) in the second direction. The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) are positioned to face the sensor magnet of the lens assembly so as to sense the magnetic force of the sensor magnet.

[0100] The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be positioned to overlap with the midpoint of the maximum movement range of the first lens assembly (1200) and the second lens assembly (1300) with respect to the optical axis direction. The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be positioned on the third sub-substrate (1430), and the third sub-substrate (1430) may be positioned at the center of the movement stroke in the optical axis direction of the lens assembly. That is, when the first lens assembly (1200) is located in the middle of the movement range in the optical axis direction, the first sensor (S1) may overlap with the first sensor magnet (M3) in the second direction, and when the second lens assembly (1300) is located in the middle of the movement range in the optical axis direction, the second sensor (S2) may overlap with the second sensor magnet (M4) in the second direction. Additionally, the first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be positioned between the third sensor (S3) and the fourth sensor (S4) with respect to the optical axis direction. Accordingly, the first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) can sense the sensor magnet at the center of the stroke of the lens assembly. Therefore, recognition of the initial position of the lens assembly is unnecessary, and position sensing of the lens assembly can be performed accurately and quickly.

[0101] The third sensor (S3) and the fourth sensor (S4) can sense the driving magnet. The third sensor (S3) can sense the first driving magnet (M1), and the fourth sensor (S4) can sense the second driving magnet (M2). The third sensor (S3) and the fourth sensor (S4) may include an index sensor. The third sensor (S3) and the fourth sensor (S4) may include a Hall sensor and a TMR sensor.

[0102] The third sensor (S3) may be placed on the first sub-substrate (1410), and the third sensor (S3) may be placed inside the first coil (C1). The third sensor (S3) may be placed in the inner hole of the first coil (C1). The third sensor (S3) may overlap with the first coil (C1) in the optical axis direction and the second direction. The third sensor (S3) may be placed at the center of the inner hole of the first coil (C1). Alternatively, the third sensor (S3) may be placed at a position adjacent to the second coil (C2) in the optical axis direction relative to the center of the inner hole of the first coil (C1). The third sensor (S3) may be opposite the first driving magnet (M1) of the first lens assembly (1200).

[0103] The fourth sensor (S4) may be placed on the second sub-substrate (1420), and the fourth sensor (S4) may be placed inside the fourth coil (C4). The fourth sensor (S4) may be placed in the inner hole of the fourth coil (C4). The fourth sensor (S4) may overlap with the fourth coil (C4) in the optical axis direction and the second direction. The fourth sensor (S4) may be placed at the center of the inner hole of the fourth coil (C4). Alternatively, the fourth sensor (S4) may be placed at a position adjacent to the third coil (C3) in the optical axis direction relative to the center of the inner hole of the fourth coil (C4). The fourth sensor (S4) may face the second driving magnet (M2) of the second lens assembly (1300). The third sensor (S3) and the fourth sensor (S4) may not overlap in the first direction. The third sensor (S3) and the fourth sensor (S4) may be spaced apart by a certain distance in the direction of the optical axis and the first direction.

[0104] FIG. 13 is a front view of a camera actuator excluding the housing according to another embodiment, FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a camera actuator with the substrate and coil combined according to another embodiment, and FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a camera actuator with the substrate and coil combined according to another embodiment.

[0105] Referring to FIGS. 13 through 15, the camera actuator may include two coils. The camera actuator may include a first coil (C1) and a second coil (C2). In this case, the first lens assembly (1200) may be driven by the first coil (C1), and the second lens assembly (1300) may be driven by the second coil (C2). The first coil (C1) may be placed on a first sub-substrate (1410), and the second coil (C2) may be placed on a second sub-substrate (1420). The first coil (C1) and the second coil (C2) may overlap in a first direction.

[0106] The camera actuator may include first to fourth sensors (S1, S2, S3, S4). The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be placed on the third sub-substrate (1430). Additionally, the third sensor (S3) may be placed on the first sub-substrate (1410), and the fourth sensor (S4) may be placed on the second sub-substrate (1420).

[0107] The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be positioned on the third sub-substrate (1430) so as to face the lens assembly. That is, the first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be positioned on the inner side facing the housing of the third sub-substrate (1430). The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be positioned spaced apart by a certain distance in a first direction. The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be positioned spaced apart from the first sub-substrate (1410) and the second sub-substrate (1420), respectively, in a first direction. The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may face the sensor magnet of the lens assembly. The first sensor (S1) may face the first sensor magnet (M3), and the second sensor (S2) may face the second sensor magnet (M4). The first sensor (S1) may be located at the same point as the first sensor magnet (M3) with respect to the first direction. Additionally, the second sensor (S2) may be located at the same point as the second sensor magnet (M4) with respect to the first direction. As the first lens assembly (1200) moves in the direction of the optical axis, the first sensor (S1) may overlap with the first sensor magnet (M3) in the second direction. Additionally, as the second lens assembly (1300) moves in the direction of the optical axis, the second sensor (S2) may overlap with the second sensor magnet (M4) in the second direction. The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) are positioned to face the sensor magnet of the lens assembly so as to sense the magnetic force of the sensor magnet.

[0108] The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be positioned to overlap with the midpoint of the maximum movement range of the first lens assembly (1200) and the second lens assembly (1300) with respect to the optical axis direction. The first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) may be positioned on a third sub-substrate (1430), and the third sub-substrate (1430) may be positioned at the center of the movement stroke in the optical axis direction of the lens assembly. Accordingly, the first sensor (S1) and the second sensor (S2) can sense the sensor magnet at the center of the stroke of the lens assembly. Therefore, recognition of the initial position of a separate lens assembly is unnecessary, and position sensing of the lens assembly can be performed accurately and quickly.

[0109] The third sensor (S3) and the fourth sensor (S4) can sense the driving magnet. The third sensor (S3) can sense the first driving magnet (M1), and the fourth sensor (S4) can sense the second driving magnet (M2). The third sensor (S3) and the fourth sensor (S4) may include an index sensor.

[0110] The third sensor (S3) may be placed on the first sub-substrate (1410), and the third sensor (S3) may be placed inside the first coil (C1). The third sensor (S3) may be placed in the inner hole of the first coil (C1). The third sensor (S3) may overlap with the first coil (C1) in the optical axis direction and the second direction. The third sensor (S3) may be placed at the center of the inner hole of the first coil (C1). The third sensor (S3) may face the first driving magnet (M1) of the first lens assembly (1200).

[0111] The fourth sensor (S4) may be placed on the second sub-substrate (1420), and the fourth sensor (S4) may be placed inside the second coil (C2). The fourth sensor (S4) may be placed in the inner hole of the second coil (C2). The fourth sensor (S4) may overlap with the second coil (C2) in the optical axis direction and the second direction. The fourth sensor (S4) may be placed at the center of the inner hole of the second coil (C2). The fourth sensor (S4) may face the second driving magnet (M2) of the second lens assembly (1300). The third sensor (S3) and the fourth sensor (S4) may overlap in the first direction. Additionally, the first to fourth sensors (S1, S2, S3, S4) may be placed at the same position with respect to the optical axis direction. The first to fourth sensors (S1, S2, S3, S4) may overlap with the midpoint of the maximum movement range of the first lens assembly (1200) and the second lens assembly (1300) with respect to the optical axis direction.

[0112] FIGS. 16 and 17 are graphs showing the measurement method of the sensor of a camera actuator according to an embodiment.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the sensor of the camera actuator can sense the position of the lens assembly by dividing it into sections. For example, the sensor can sense the transition position of the lens assembly through a position sensor by dividing the position of the lens assembly into sections 1 through 5. At this time, the output value of the index sensor can be mapped by dividing it into each section. Then, the absolute position of the lens assembly can be derived by adding the value obtained by multiplying the output value of the index sensor by the section to the transition position. In the case of a conventional lens assembly, the position of the index sensor is skewed to one side, so the output value of the index sensor is non-linear, and consequently, there is a problem in that it is difficult to map the output value of the index sensor in sections other than the first section. In the case of the lens assembly according to the embodiment, the positions of the position sensor and the index sensor are placed adjacent to the center of the lens assembly stroke, so the output value of the index sensor is formed linearly, and accordingly, the output value of the index sensor can be easily mapped in all sections. Therefore, when starting the sensing of the position of the lens assembly, the process of moving the lens assembly to a specific reference position can be omitted. Ultimately, it is possible to prevent errors caused by moving to a reference position during position sensing of the lens assembly, and to perform position sensing quickly.

[0114] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a mobile terminal with a sensor module applied according to an embodiment.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 18, the mobile terminal of the embodiment may include a camera module (1), a flash module (2), and an autofocus device (3) provided on the rear.

[0116] The camera module (1) may include an image capturing function and an autofocus function. For example, the camera module (1) may include an autofocus function using an image.

[0117] The camera module (1) processes still image or video frame obtained by the image sensor in shooting mode or video call mode.

[0118] The processed image frame may be displayed on a designated display unit and stored in memory. A camera (not shown) may also be placed on the front of the mobile terminal body.

[0119] For example, the camera module (1) may include a first camera module and a second camera module, and the first camera module may enable the implementation of AF or zoom functions along with OIS. Additionally, AF, zoom, and OIS functions may be performed by the second camera module. At this time, since the first camera module includes both the OIS actuator and the camera actuator described above, the miniaturization of the camera module can be easily achieved by changing the light path.

[0120] The flash module (2) may include a light-emitting element that emits light inside. The flash module (2) may be operated by the operation of the camera of the mobile terminal or by the control of the user.

[0121] The autofocus device (3) may include one of the packages of surface light-emitting laser elements as a light-emitting part.

[0122] The autofocus device (3) may include an autofocus function using a laser. The autofocus device (3) may be mainly used in conditions where the autofocus function using the image of the camera device (1) is degraded, such as in close proximity of 10m or less or in a dark environment.

[0123] The autofocus device (3) may include a light-emitting part including a vertical cavity surface emission laser (VCSEL) semiconductor device and a light-receiving part that converts light energy into electrical energy, such as a photodiode.

[0124] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a vehicle with a sensor module applied according to an embodiment.

[0125] For example, FIG. 19 is an exterior view of a vehicle equipped with a vehicle driving assistance device having a camera module applied according to an embodiment.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 19, the vehicle (700) of the embodiment may be equipped with wheels (13FL, 13FR) that rotate by a power source and a predetermined sensor. The sensor may be a camera sensor (3000), but is not limited thereto.

[0127] The camera sensor (3000) may be a camera sensor to which a camera module according to the embodiment is applied. The vehicle (700) of the embodiment can acquire image information through the camera sensor (3000) that captures a front image or a surrounding image, and can determine a situation where a lane is not identified using the image information and generate a virtual lane when it is not identified.

[0128] For example, a camera sensor (3000) captures the front of a vehicle (700) to obtain a front image, and a processor (not shown) can obtain image information by analyzing objects included in the front image.

[0129] For example, if objects such as a median strip, curb, or roadside tree corresponding to a lane, adjacent vehicle, driving obstruction, and indirect road marking are captured in an image captured by the camera sensor (3000), the processor can detect these objects and include them in the image information. At this time, the processor can obtain distance information with respect to the objects detected through the camera sensor (3000) to further supplement the image information.

[0130] The image information may be information about an object captured in the image. Such a camera sensor (3000) may include an image sensor and an image processing module.

[0131] The camera sensor (3000) can process still images or videos obtained by an image sensor (e.g., CMOS or CCD).

[0132] The image processing module can process still images or videos acquired through an image sensor to extract necessary information and transmit the extracted information to a processor.

[0133] At this time, the camera sensor (3000) may include a stereo camera to improve the measurement accuracy of the object and to obtain more information such as the distance between the vehicle (700) and the object, but is not limited thereto.

[0134] Although the invention has been described above with reference to embodiments, this is merely illustrative and does not limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible within the scope of the essential characteristics of the embodiments. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments may be modified and implemented. Furthermore, differences related to such modifications and applications should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

Housing; A first lens assembly and a second lens assembly disposed within the above housing and moving in the direction of the optical axis; A first driving unit for driving the first lens assembly and a second driving unit for driving the second lens assembly; A first sensor magnet disposed in the first lens assembly and a second sensor magnet disposed in the second lens assembly; and It includes a first sensor facing the first sensor magnet and a second sensor facing the second sensor magnet, A camera actuator in which the first sensor and the second sensor are positioned to overlap with the midpoint of the maximum movement range of the first lens assembly and the second lens assembly with respect to the optical axis direction. In paragraph 1, The first sensor and the second sensor are spaced apart in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction, and When the first lens assembly is positioned in the middle of the range of movement in the optical axis direction, the first sensor is superimposed with the first sensor magnet in the optical axis direction and in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and When the second lens assembly is located in the middle of the range of movement in the optical axis direction, the second sensor is a camera actuator that overlaps with the second sensor magnet in the second direction. In paragraph 2, The first driving unit comprises a first driving magnet disposed in the first lens assembly, a first coil and a second coil facing the first driving magnet, and The second driving unit is a camera actuator comprising a second driving magnet disposed in the second lens assembly and a third coil and a fourth coil facing the second driving magnet. In paragraph 3, A camera actuator comprising a third sensor that overlaps the first coil and the second coil in the direction of the optical axis, and a fourth sensor that overlaps the third coil and the fourth coil in the direction of the optical axis. In paragraph 4, The first sensor and the second sensor are camera actuators positioned between the third sensor and the fourth sensor with respect to the optical axis direction. In paragraph 4, The first coil and the second coil are arranged in the direction of the optical axis, and The third coil and the fourth coil are arranged in the direction of the optical axis, and The first coil and the third coil are overlapped in the first direction, and A camera actuator in which the third sensor is disposed in the inner hole of the first coil and the fourth sensor is disposed in the inner hole of the fourth coil. In paragraph 6, The third sensor is superimposed with the center of the first coil with respect to the optical axis direction, and The fourth sensor is a camera actuator that overlaps with the center of the fourth coil with respect to the optical axis direction. In paragraph 6, It includes a substrate disposed on the outside of the above housing, and The first to fourth sensors are camera actuators disposed on the substrate. In paragraph 8, The above substrate is a camera actuator comprising a first sub-substrate, a second sub-substrate, and a third sub-substrate disposed between the first sub-substrate and the second sub-substrate. In Paragraph 9, The first sensor and the second sensor are disposed on the third sub-substrate, and The third sensor is disposed on the first sub-substrate, and The fourth sensor is a camera actuator disposed on the second sub-substrate.

Images