CN109963058B

CN109963058B - Prism device and camera device including the same

Info

Publication number: CN109963058B
Application number: CN201811531640.XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: 李东烈; 李自镛; 姜亨宙; 金宽亨
Original assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Current assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Priority date: 2017-12-14
Filing date: 2018-12-14
Publication date: 2021-04-06
Anticipated expiration: 2038-12-14
Also published as: CN109963058A

Abstract

The present invention relates to a prism device and a camera and an image display device including the same. The prism device of the present invention includes: a first prism configured to reflect input light toward a first reflection direction; a first actuator configured to change an angle of the first prism about the first rotation axis to change the first reflection direction based on a first control signal; a second prism configured to reflect the light reflected from the first prism toward a second reflection direction; and a second actuator configured to change an angle of the second prism about the second rotation axis based on a second control signal to change the second reflection direction.

Description

Prism device and camera device including the same

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims priority from us patent application No. us62/598,475 filed on 12/14.2018 and korean patent application No. 10-2018-.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a prism apparatus and a camera apparatus including the same, and more particularly, to a prism apparatus capable of performing Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to compensate for a double prism motion caused by hand trembling, and a camera and an image display apparatus including the same.

Background

A camera is a device for taking images. Recently, as a camera is employed in a mobile terminal, research on miniaturization of the camera has been conducted.

Meanwhile, in addition to the miniaturization trend of cameras, an auto-focusing function and an Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) function are also employed.

In particular, in order to perform an Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) function, it is important to accurately detect and compensate for the movement of the biprism caused by hand trembling.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides a prism apparatus capable of performing Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) for compensating for movement of a double prism caused by hand trembling, and a camera and an image display apparatus including the same.

The present invention also provides a prism apparatus capable of performing Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) by independently rotating a double prism, and a camera and an image display apparatus including the same.

The present invention also provides a slim camera and an image display device including the prism device.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a prism apparatus includes: a first prism configured to reflect input light toward a first reflection direction; a first actuator configured to change an angle of the first prism about the first rotation axis to change the first reflection direction based on a first control signal, the second prism configured to reflect light reflected from the first prism toward the second reflection direction; and a second actuator configured to change an angle of the second prism about the second rotation axis based on a second control signal to change the second reflection direction.

The first prism includes an inner first reflective surface and the second prism includes an inner second reflective surface, the inner first reflective surface and the inner second reflective surface configured to reflect light.

The first prism is configured to receive input light through the first entrance prism surface and output input light reflected from the internal first reflection surface through the first exit prism surface, and the second prism is configured to receive reflected light through the second entrance prism surface and output reflected light reflected from the internal second reflection surface through the second exit prism surface.

The first prism and the second prism are configured such that the first exit prism surface faces the second entrance prism surface.

The first rotational axis of the first prism is perpendicular to the second rotational axis of the second prism.

In response to a movement that rotates the first prism by a first angle about the first rotation axis and rotates the second prism by a second angle about the second rotation axis, the first actuator is configured to rotate the first prism by a third angle in a third direction opposite to the first direction in response to the first control signal, and the second actuator is configured to rotate the second prism by a fourth angle in a fourth direction opposite to the second direction in response to the second control signal, wherein the third angle is half the first angle, and wherein the fourth angle is half the second angle.

The prism device further includes: a first hall sensor configured to sense an angle change of the first prism based on a first magnetic field; and a second hall sensor configured to sense an angle change of the second prism based on the second magnetic field.

The first actuator includes a first drive magnet and a first drive coil.

The prism device further includes: a first prism holder configured to hold a first prism; a first yoke coupled to a rear of the first prism support; a first driving magnet coupled to a rear of the first prism holder; a first coil support including a plurality of protrusions protruding toward the first prism support, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions includes an opening, and wherein the openings define a first rotational axis, wherein the first drive coil is disposed between the first coil support and the first yoke, wherein the first prism support includes a plurality of bosses configured to engage with the openings of the plurality of protrusions to allow the first prism to rotate about the first prism axis.

The second actuator includes a second drive magnet and a second drive coil.

The prism device further includes: a second prism holder configured to hold a second prism; a second yoke coupled to a rear of the second prism support; a second driving magnet coupled to a rear portion of the second yoke; a second coil support including a plurality of protrusions protruding toward the second prism support, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions includes an opening, and wherein the openings define a second rotation axis, wherein the second drive coil is disposed between the second coil support and the second yoke, wherein the second prism support includes a plurality of bosses configured to engage with the openings of the plurality of protrusions to allow the second prism to rotate about the second prism axis.

The refractive indices of the first prism and the second prism are 1.7 or more.

The refractive indices of the first and second prisms are less than 1.7, and wherein a reflective coating is formed on the reflective surfaces of the first and second prisms.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a camera apparatus includes: a gyroscope sensor configured to sense movement of the camera device; a double prism device configured to direct input light; a lens arrangement comprising a plurality of lenses configured to be adjusted to achieve a variable focus; and an image sensor configured to generate an image signal based on the input light, wherein the double prism device includes: a first prism configured to reflect input light toward a first reflection direction; a first actuator configured to change an angle of the first prism about the first rotation axis to change the first reflection direction based on a first control signal; a second prism configured to reflect the light reflected from the first prism toward a second reflection direction; and a second actuator configured to change an angle of the second prism about the second rotation axis based on a second control signal to change a second reflection direction for outputting the reflected light toward the lens device and the image sensor.

The camera device further includes: a first hall sensor configured to sense an angle change of the first prism caused by the movement based on a first magnetic field; and a second hall sensor configured to sense an angle change of the second prism caused by the movement based on the second magnetic field.

The camera device further includes: a drive controller configured to generate a first control signal and a second control signal for stabilizing an image captured by the image sensor, wherein the first control signal is based on an angle change of the first prism caused by the movement and the second control signal is based on an angle change of the second prism caused by the movement.

The direction of the input light entering the first entrance prism surface is parallel to the image sensor.

The image sensor receives light corresponding to an object photographed from the double prism device while the image sensor is positioned perpendicular to the photographed object.

One or more of the plurality of lenses are moved along an axis to achieve variable focus, and the axis is perpendicular to a direction of light input to and output from the first prism through the first entrance prism surface.

The camera device further includes a drive controller, wherein: in response to movement of the first prism to rotate the first prism by a first angle about the first axis of rotation and the second prism by a second angle about the second axis of rotation, the drive controller is configured to: the first control signal is generated to cause the first actuator to rotate the first prism by a third angle in a third direction opposite the first direction, and the second control signal is generated to cause the second actuator to rotate the second prism by a fourth angle in a fourth direction opposite the second direction, wherein the third angle is half the first angle, and wherein the fourth angle is half the second angle.

The camera device further includes: a first prism holder configured to hold a first prism; a first yoke coupled to a rear of the first prism support; a first drive magnet of a first actuator coupled to a rear portion of the first yoke; a first coil mount including a plurality of protrusions protruding toward the first prism mount, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions includes an opening, and wherein the openings define a first rotational axis, wherein the first drive coil of the first actuator is disposed between the first coil mount and the first yoke, wherein the first prism mount includes a plurality of bosses configured to engage with the openings of the plurality of protrusions to allow the first prism to rotate about the first prism axis.

The camera device further includes: a second prism holder configured to hold a second prism; a second yoke coupled to a rear of the second prism support; a second driving magnet of a second actuator coupled to a rear portion of the second yoke; a second coil support including a plurality of protrusions protruding toward the second prism support, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions includes an opening, and wherein the openings define a second rotation axis, wherein a second drive coil of the second actuator is disposed between the second coil support and the second yoke, wherein the second prism support includes a plurality of bosses configured to engage with the openings of the plurality of protrusions to allow the second prism to rotate about the second prism axis.

A prism device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a first prism that reflects input light; a first actuator that changes an angle of the first prism with respect to the first rotation axis based on a first control signal; a second prism that reflects the light from the first prism; and a second actuator that changes an angle of the second prism with respect to the second rotation axis based on a second control signal. Therefore, the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) of the biprism can be achieved. In particular, by independently rotating the biprisms, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be achieved based on multiple axes of rotation.

Meanwhile, the first and second prisms are arranged to cross each other. Accordingly, since the optical paths of the first prism and the second prism are different from each other, an L-shaped camera can be realized, and thus a slim camera having a reduced thickness can be realized.

Meanwhile, the prism device further includes: a first hall sensor sensing a magnetic field or a change in the magnetic field according to an angle change of the first prism; a second Hall sensor sensing a magnetic field or a change in the magnetic field according to an angle change of the second prism. Therefore, the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) of the biprism can be achieved.

Meanwhile, the first actuator includes a first driving magnet and a first driving coil. Accordingly, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) of the first prism can be achieved.

Meanwhile, the first driving magnet is attached to a second surface which is a rear surface of the first yoke, the first driving coil is disposed between the first coil holder and the first yoke, and bosses in both ends of the first prism holder are coupled with openings formed in the protrusions of the first coil holder. Accordingly, the first driving magnet, the first prism holder, and the first prism can be rotated based on the first rotation axis.

Meanwhile, the second actuator includes a second driving magnet and a second driving coil. Accordingly, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) of the second prism can be achieved.

Meanwhile, a second driving magnet is attached to a second surface, which is a rear surface of the first surface of the second yoke, a second driving coil is disposed between the second coil holder and the second yoke, and bosses in both ends of the second prism holder are coupled to openings formed in the protrusions of the second coil holder. Accordingly, the second driving magnet, the second prism holder, and the second prism can be rotated based on the second rotation axis.

Meanwhile, when the first prism moves at a first angle of a first direction of the first rotation axis, the first actuator changes the first prism to a second angle, which is half of the first angle, in a second direction opposite to the first direction of the first rotation axis. Therefore, the compensation angle in the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) becomes small, so that the accuracy of the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be improved.

Meanwhile, when the second prism moves at a third angle of the third direction of the second rotation axis, the second actuator changes the second prism to a fourth angle, which is half of the third angle, in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction of the second rotation axis. Therefore, the compensation angle in the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) becomes small, so that the accuracy of the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be improved.

Meanwhile, the refractive indices of the first and second prisms are 1.7 or more. Accordingly, total reflection can be performed in the first prism and the second prism, and thus, light can be transmitted in the direction of the image sensor.

Meanwhile, the refractive indexes of the first and second prisms are less than 1.7, and reflective coatings are formed on the reflective surfaces of the first and second prisms, respectively. Accordingly, total reflection can be performed in the first prism and the second prism, and thus, light can be transmitted in the direction of the image sensor.

A camera according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a gyroscope sensor that senses motion; a prism device that changes an angle of input light with respect to the first and second rotation axes and outputs light to compensate for a motion sensed by the gyro sensor; a lens device including a plurality of lenses for moving at least one lens to achieve a variable focus and outputting light from the prism device by using the moved lens; and an image sensor that converts light from the lens device into an electrical signal. Therefore, the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) of the biprism can be achieved. In particular, by independently rotating the biprisms, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be achieved based on multiple axes of rotation.

Meanwhile, the camera further includes a driving controller that controls the first actuator based on the first control signal and the first magnetic field or magnetic field change information from the first hall sensor, and controls the second actuator based on the second control signal and the second magnetic field or magnetic field change information from the second hall sensor. Meanwhile, accurate Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be achieved through closed-loop control of the drive controller.

An image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a display; a camera; a controller which controls the display to display an image photographed by the camera; and a gyro sensor for sensing motion, wherein the camera includes: a prism device that changes an angle of input light with respect to the first and second rotation axes and outputs light so as to compensate for a motion sensed by the gyro sensor; a lens device including a plurality of lenses, moving at least one lens to achieve a variable focus, and outputting light from the prism device by using the moved lens; and an image sensor that converts light from the lens device into an electrical signal. Therefore, the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) of the biprism can be achieved. In particular, by independently rotating the biprisms, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be achieved based on multiple axes of rotation.

Drawings

The objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

fig. 1A is a perspective view of a mobile terminal as an example of an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is a rear perspective view of the mobile terminal shown in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the mobile terminal of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A is an internal cross-sectional view of the camera of FIG. 2;

FIG. 3B is an internal block diagram of the camera of FIG. 2;

fig. 3C and 3D are various examples of internal block diagrams of the camera of fig. 2;

fig. 4A is a diagram illustrating a camera having a double prism device;

fig. 4B and 4C are diagrams illustrating a camera in which the double prism device is omitted;

fig. 5A is a diagram illustrating an example of a camera having a rotatable biprism module in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 5B is a diagram illustrating a mobile terminal having the camera of fig. 5A;

fig. 6A is a diagram illustrating another example of a camera having a rotatable biprism module in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 6B is a diagram illustrating a mobile terminal having the camera of fig. 6A; and

fig. 7 to 10 are diagrams for explaining the camera of fig. 6A.

Detailed Description

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. With regard to the constituent elements used in the following description, suffixes "module" and "unit" are given only in consideration of ease of preparation specification, and do not have or serve as different meanings. Thus, the suffixes "module" and "unit" may be used interchangeably.

Fig. 1A is a perspective view of a mobile terminal as an example of an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and fig. 1B is a rear perspective view of the mobile terminal shown in fig. 1A.

Referring to fig. 1A, a case forming an external appearance of the mobile terminal 100 may be formed of a front case 100-1 and a rear case 100-2. Various electronic components may be embedded in a space formed by the front case 100-1 and the rear case 100-2.

Specifically, the display 180, the first sound output module 153a, the first camera 195a, and the first to third

user input units

130a, 130b, and 130c may be disposed in the front case 100-1. Further, the fourth user input unit 130d, the fifth user input unit 130e, and the first to third microphones 123a, 123b, and 123c may be disposed on a side surface of the rear case 100-2.

In the display 180, the touch panels may be overlapped in a layer structure so that the display 180 may operate as a touch screen.

The first sound output module 153a may be implemented in the form of a receiver or a speaker. The first camera 195a may be implemented in a form suitable for taking an image or moving image of the user, or the like. The microphone 123 may be implemented in a form suitable for receiving a user's voice, other sounds, and the like.

The first to fifth

user input units

130a, 130b, 130c, 130d, and 130e and the sixth and seventh

user input units

130f and 130g, which are described below, may be collectively referred to as the user input unit 130.

The first and second microphones 123a and 123b may be disposed at an upper side of the rear case 100-2, i.e., an upper side of the mobile terminal 100, to collect audio signals, and the third microphone 123c may be disposed at a lower side of the rear case 100-2, i.e., a lower side of the mobile terminal 100, to collect audio signals.

Referring to fig. 1B, the second camera 195B, the third camera 195c and the fourth microphone 123d may be additionally mounted on the rear surface of the rear case 100-2, and the sixth and seventh

user input units

130f and 130g and the interface 175 may be disposed on the side surface of the rear case 100-2.

The second camera 195b has a photographing direction substantially opposite to that of the first camera 195a, and may have different pixels from the first camera 195 a. A flash (not shown) and a mirror (not shown) may be additionally disposed adjacent to the second camera 195 b. In addition, another camera may be installed adjacent to the second camera 195b to be used for photographing a three-dimensional stereoscopic image.

The second camera 195b may have a photographing direction substantially opposite to that of the first camera 195a and may have different pixels from the first camera 195 a. A flash (not shown) and a mirror (not shown) may be additionally disposed adjacent to the second camera 195 b. In addition, another camera may be installed to be adjacent to the second camera 195b to be used for photographing a three-dimensional stereoscopic image.

A second sound output module (not shown) may be additionally disposed in the rear case 100-2. The second sound output module may implement a stereo function together with the first sound output module 153a and may be used for a call in a speaker phone mode.

A power supply unit 190 for supplying power to the mobile terminal 100 may be mounted in the rear case 100-2. The power supply unit 190 may be, for example, a rechargeable battery, and may be detachably coupled to the rear case 100-2 for charging or the like.

The fourth microphone 123d may be disposed in the front surface of the rear case 100-2, i.e., in the rear surface of the mobile terminal 100, to collect audio signals.

Fig. 2 is a block diagram of the mobile terminal of fig. 1.

Referring to fig. 2, the mobile terminal 100 may include a wireless communication unit 110, an audio/video (a/V) input unit 120, a user input unit 130, a sensing unit 140, an output unit 150, a memory 160, an interface 175, a controller 170, and a power supply unit 190. When these components are implemented in actual applications, two or more components may be combined into one component or one component may be divided into two or more components, if necessary.

The wireless communication unit 110 may include a broadcast receiving module 111, a mobile communication module 113, a wireless internet module 115, a short-range communication module 117, and a GPS module 119.

The broadcast receiving module 111 may receive at least one of a broadcast signal and broadcast associated information from an external broadcast management server through a broadcast channel. The broadcast signal and/or the broadcast-related information received through the broadcast receiving module 111 may be stored in the memory 160.

The mobile communication module 113 may transmit and receive wireless signals to and from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network. Here, the wireless signal may include various types of data according to voice call signal, video call signal, or character/multimedia message transmission/reception.

The wireless internet module 115 refers to a module for wireless internet access, and the wireless internet module 115 may be embedded in the mobile terminal 100 or externally provided.

The short-range communication module 117 refers to a module for short-range communication. Bluetooth, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), infrared data association (IrDA), Ultra Wideband (UWB), zigbee, and Near Field Communication (NFC) may be used as the short-range communication technology.

Global Positioning System (GPS) module 119 may receive location information from a plurality of GPS satellites.

The audio/video (a/V) input unit 120 may be used to input an audio signal or a video signal, and may include a camera 195, a microphone 123, and the like.

The camera 195 may process image frames such as still images or moving images obtained by an image sensor in a video call mode or a photographing mode. The processed image frames may then be displayed on the display 180.

The image frames processed by the camera 195 may be stored in the memory 160 or transmitted to the outside through the wireless communication unit 110. Two or more cameras 195 may be provided according to the configuration of the terminal.

The microphone 123 may receive an external audio signal by the microphone in a display-off mode, for example, a call mode, a recording mode, or a voice recognition mode, and may process the audio signal into electronic voice data.

Meanwhile, the plurality of microphones 123 may be disposed at different positions. The audio signal received in each microphone may be subjected to audio signal processing or the like in the controller 170.

The user input unit 130 may generate key input data input by a user for controlling the operation of the terminal. The user input unit 130 may include a keypad, a dome switch, and a touch pad (static pressure scheme/capacitance scheme) capable of receiving a command or information through a pressing or touching operation by a user. In particular, when the touch panel has a mutual layer structure with the display 180 described later, it may be referred to as a touch screen.

The sensing unit 140 may detect a current state of the mobile terminal 100, such as an open/close state of the mobile terminal 100, a position of the mobile terminal 100, a contact of a user, etc., and may generate a sensing signal for controlling an operation of the mobile terminal 100.

The sensing unit 140 may include a proximity sensor 141, a pressure sensor 143, a motion sensor 145, a touch sensor 146, and the like.

The proximity sensor 141 may detect an object approaching the mobile terminal 100 or an object near the mobile terminal 100 without mechanical contact. Specifically, the proximity sensor 141 may detect a nearby object by using a change in an alternating magnetic field or a change in a static magnetic field, or by using a rate of change in capacitance.

The pressure sensor 143 may detect whether pressure is applied to the mobile terminal 100, or detect the magnitude of the pressure, etc.

The motion sensor 145 may detect a position or a motion of the mobile terminal 100 by using an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, or the like.

The touch sensor 146 may detect a touch input of a finger of a user or a touch input of a specific pen. For example, when the touch screen panel is disposed on the display 180, the touch screen panel may include the touch sensor 146 for detecting position information and intensity information of a touch input. A sensing signal detected by the touch sensor 146 may be transmitted to the controller 180.

The output unit 150 may be used to output an audio signal, a video signal, or an alarm signal. The output unit 150 may include a display 180, a sound output module 153, an alarm unit 155, and a haptic module 157.

The display 180 may display and output information processed by the mobile terminal 100. For example, when the mobile terminal 100 is in a call mode, a User Interface (UI) or a Graphic User Interface (GUI) related to a call may be displayed. When the mobile terminal 100 is in a video call mode or a photographing mode, photographed or received images may be displayed separately or simultaneously, and a UI and a GUI may be displayed.

Meanwhile, as described above, when the display 180 and the touch panel form an inter-layer structure to constitute the touch screen, the display 180 may be used as an input device capable of inputting information by a user's touch in addition to the output device.

The sound output module 153 may output audio data received from the wireless communication unit 110 or stored in the memory 160 in a call signal reception, a call mode or recording mode, a voice recognition mode, a broadcast reception mode, or the like. The sound output module 153 may output an audio signal related to a function performed in the mobile terminal 100, for example, a call signal reception tone, a message reception tone, and the like. The sound output module 153 may include a speaker, a buzzer, and the like.

The alarm unit 155 may output a signal for notifying the occurrence of an event of the mobile terminal 100. The alarm unit 155 may output a signal for notifying the occurrence of an event in a form other than an audio signal or a video signal. For example, the signal can be output in the form of vibration.

The haptic module 157 may generate various haptic effects that a user can feel. A typical example of the haptic effect generated by the haptic module 157 may be a vibration effect. When the haptic module 157 generates a vibration having a haptic effect, the intensity and pattern of the vibration generated by the haptic module 157 can be converted, and different vibrations can be synthesized and output or sequentially output.

The memory 160 may store a program for processing and controlling the controller 170, and may be used to temporarily store input or output data (e.g., a phonebook, messages, still images, moving images, etc.).

The interface 175 may serve as an interface with all external devices connected to the mobile terminal 100. The interface 175 may receive data from an external device or power from an external device to transmit to each component in the mobile terminal 100 and allow data in the mobile terminal 100 to be transmitted to the external device.

The controller 170 may generally control the operation of each unit to control the overall operation of the mobile terminal 100. For example, the controller 170 may perform related control and processing for voice calls, data communications, video calls, and the like. In addition, the controller 170 may include a multimedia play module 181 for playing multimedia. The multimedia play module 181 may be configured in hardware inside the controller 170 or may be configured in software separately from the controller 170. Meanwhile, the controller 170 may include an application processor (not shown) for driving an application. Alternatively, the application processor (not shown) may be provided separately from the controller 170.

The power supply unit 190 may receive external power or internal power under the control of the controller 170 to supply power required for the operation of each component.

Fig. 3A is an internal cross-sectional view of the camera of fig. 2.

Referring to the drawings, fig. 3A is an example of a cross-sectional view of a second camera 195b inside camera 195.

The second camera 195b may include an aperture 194b, a prism device 192b, a lens device 193b, and an image sensor 820 b.

The aperture 194b can open and close light incident on the lens arrangement 193 b.

The image sensor 820b may include an RGb filter 915b and a sensor array 911b for converting an optical signal into an electrical signal so as to sense RGb colors.

Accordingly, the image sensor 820b may sense and output RGB images, respectively.

Fig. 3B is an internal block diagram of the camera of fig. 2.

Referring to the drawings, fig. 3B is an example of a block diagram of a second camera 195B for use inside the camera 195.

The second camera 195b may include a prism device 192b, a lens device 193b, an image sensor 820b, and an image processor 830.

The image processor 830 may generate an RGB image based on the electrical signal from the image sensor 820 b.

Meanwhile, the image sensor 820b may adjust the exposure time based on the electrical signal.

Meanwhile, the RGB image from the image processor 830 may be transmitted to the controller 180 of the mobile terminal 100.

Meanwhile, the controller 180 of the mobile terminal 100 may output a control signal for movement of a lens in the lens device 193b to the lens device 193 b. For example, a control signal for autofocus may be output to the lens device 193 b.

Meanwhile, the controller 180 of the mobile terminal 100 may output a control signal for an Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) function in the prism device 192b to the prism device 192 b.

Fig. 3C and 3D are various examples of internal block diagrams of the camera of fig. 2.

First, fig. 3C illustrates that the gyro sensor 145C, the driving controller DRC, the first prism module 692a, and the second prism module 692b are disposed inside the camera 195 b.

The gyro sensor 145c may detect the first directional movement and the second directional movement. The gyro sensor 145c may output motion information Sfz including the first-direction motion and the second-direction motion.

The drive controller DRC may output control signals Saca and Sacb for motion compensation to the first prism module 692a and the second prism module 692b, respectively, based on the motion information Sfz including the first-direction motion and the second-direction motion from the gyro sensor 145 c.

Specifically, the drive controller DRC may output control signals to the first and second actuators ACTa, ACTb in the first and

second prism modules

692a, 692 b.

The first control signal Saca may be a control signal for compensating for a first directional motion sensed by the gyro sensor 145c, and the second control signal Sacb may be a control signal for compensating for a second directional motion sensed by the gyro sensor 145 c.

The first actuator ACTa may change the angle of the first prism PSMa based on the first rotation axis based on the first control signal Saca.

The second actuator ACTb may change the angle of the second prism PSMb based on the second rotation axis based on the second control signal Sacb.

Meanwhile, the first hall sensor HSa in the first prism module 692a and the second hall sensor Hsb in the second prism module 692b may sense a change in the magnetic field to check the movement information due to the movement of the first and second prisms PSMa and PSMb.

Meanwhile, the first hall sensor HSa may sense an angle change of the first prism PSMa caused by the movement based on the first magnetic field, and the second hall sensor Hsb may sense an angle change of the second prism PSMb caused by the movement based on the second magnetic field.

The motion information detected by the first hall sensor HSa and the second hall sensor Hsb, in particular, the first and second magnetic fields or the magnetic field change information Shsa and Shsb may be input to DRC.

The drive controller DRC may perform PI control or the like based on the control signals Saca and Sacb for motion compensation and motion information, in particular, the first and second magnetic fields or magnetic field change information Shsa and Shsb, to accurately control the motion of the first prism PSMa and the second prism PSMb.

That is, the driving controller DRC can perform closed loop by receiving the information Shsa and Shsb detected by the first and second hall sensors HSa and Hsb, and can precisely control the movement of the first and second hall prisms PSMa and PSMb.

Next, although fig. 3D is similar to fig. 3C, there is a difference in that the gyro sensor 145C is not provided in the camera 195b, but is provided in the motion sensor 145 of the separate sensing unit 140 inside the mobile terminal 100.

Accordingly, although not shown in fig. 3D, the camera 195b in fig. 3D may further include an interface (not shown) for receiving signals from the external gyro sensor 145 c.

Meanwhile, motion information Sfz including the first-direction motion and the second-direction motion received from the gyro sensor 145c may be input to the drive controller DRC. The operation of the drive controller may be the same as that of fig. 3C.

Fig. 4A is a diagram illustrating a camera having a double prism device.

Referring to the drawings, a camera 195x of fig. 4A may include an image sensor 820x, a lens device 193x for transmitting light to the image sensor, a lens driving unit (CIRx) for moving a lens within the lens device 193x, and a double prism device 192bx having a first prism 192ax and a second prism 192 bx.

Camera 195x of fig. 4A may perform movement of lens arrangement 193x to perform Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). In the drawing, compensation is performed in the Dra direction as illustrated.

A disadvantage of this approach is that Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) should be performed more when the optical zoom of the lens arrangement 193x is high. Therefore, the accuracy of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be reduced.

In addition, in this case, the lens movement direction should intersect the Dra direction, making it difficult to simultaneously achieve lens movement and movement for performing Optical Image Stabilization (OIS).

In the present invention, in order to compensate for this, it is assumed that Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is implemented inside the prism module, and the angle compensation is performed, in particular, by using a rotary actuator. According to this, by performing the angle compensation, there is an advantage that it is sufficient to compensate only the angle within a given range regardless of whether the optical zoom of the lens device 193x is low or high. For example, a plurality of prism modules may be used to compensate for the first angle in the first and second rotational axis directions, respectively. Therefore, regardless of the optical zoom, since angular compensation within a given range becomes possible, the accuracy of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be improved. This will be described with reference to fig. 5A.

Fig. 4B and 4C are diagrams illustrating a camera in which the double prism device is omitted.

Referring to the drawings, the camera 195y of fig. 4B may include an image sensor 820y, a lens device 193y for transmitting light to the image sensor, and a lens driving unit (CIRx) for moving a lens within the lens device 193 y.

Meanwhile, since the camera 195y of fig. 4B does not have a plurality of prism devices, the input light RI may be directly input through the lens device 193y such that the lens device 193y and the image sensor 820y should be arranged perpendicular to the input light RI.

That is, in the mobile terminal 100y of fig. 4C, the input light RI may be transmitted to the image sensor 820y via the lens device 193 y.

Recently, the length Wy of the lens device 193y is increased according to the trend of high image quality and high performance. With this structure, there is a disadvantage in that as the length Wy of the lens device 193y increases, the thickness DDy of the mobile terminal 100y becomes larger.

Therefore, in order to solve this problem, in the present invention, a double prism may be employed, and the first and second prisms may be arranged to cross each other such that light (RI) paths of the first and second prisms are different. According to this structure, an L-type camera can be realized, and thus a slim camera having a reduced thickness can be realized. This will be described with reference to fig. 5A.

Fig. 5A is a diagram illustrating an example of a camera having a rotatable biprism module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and fig. 5B is a diagram illustrating a mobile terminal having the camera of fig. 5A.

Referring to the drawings, a camera 500a of fig. 5A may include an image sensor 520, a lens device 593 for transmitting light to the image sensor 520, and a double prism device 592 having a first prism module 592a and a second prism module 592 b.

The double prism device 592 can be different from that of fig. 4A in that it rotates to perform an Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) function.

Meanwhile, unlike fig. 4A, since the lens apparatus 593 is not provided with an Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) function, and it can be implemented more slimmed.

Lens arrangement 593 may have at least one lens and the lens may be movable for variable focus.

For example, the lens device 593 may be provided with a plurality of lenses, such as concave and convex lenses, and may move at least one of the inner lenses based on a control signal from the image processor 830 or the controller 180 to achieve a variable focus. In particular, it may move to the image sensor 820b or in the opposite direction of the image sensor 820 b.

Meanwhile, fig. 5A illustrates that the image sensor 520, the lens device 593, and the double prism device 592 are sequentially arranged, and light incident on the double prism device 592 is transmitted to the lens device 593 and the image sensor 520. However, the invention is now not limited thereto.

Specifically, light from above may be reflected by the inner first reflective surface RSa of the first prism PSMa in the first prism module 592a and may be transmitted to the second prism module 592b, and may be reflected by the inner second reflective surface RSb of the second prism PSMb in the second prism module 592b and may be transmitted to the lens arrangement 593 and the image sensor 520.

That is, unlike fig. 5A, the image sensor 520, the double prism device 592, and the lens device 593 may be sequentially arranged, and light incident on the lens device 593 may transmit the double prism device 592 and the image sensor 520.

The double prism arrangement 592 may include a first prism PSMa configured to reflect input light toward a first reflection direction; a first actuator ACTa configured to change an angle of the first prism PSMa about the first rotation axis Axma to change the first reflection direction based on the first control signal Saca; a second prism PSMb configured to reflect the light reflected from the first prism PSMa toward a second reflection direction; and a second actuator configured to change an angle of the second prism PSMb around the second rotation axis Axmb based on the second control signal Sacb to change the second reflection direction to perform Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) for compensating for a movement of the double prisms caused by hand trembling.

The first prism PSMa may include an inner first reflection surface RSa, and the second prism PSMb includes an inner second reflection surface RSb configured to reflect light.

The first prism PSMa may receive input light through the first entrance prism surface ISa and output input light reflected from the internal first reflection surface RSa through the first exit prism surface OSa, and the second prism PSMb may receive reflected light through the second entrance prism surface ISb and output reflected light reflected from the internal second reflection surface RSb through the second exit prism surface OSb.

The first and second prisms PSMa and PSMb are configured such that the first exit prism surface OSa faces the second entrance prism surface ISb.

The first rotation axis Axma of the first prism PSMa may be perpendicular to the second rotation axis Axmb of the second prism PSMb.

At this time, it is preferable that the first and second prisms PSMa and PSMb cross each other. In particular, it is preferable that the first and second prisms PSMa and PSMb are arranged perpendicular to each other.

Meanwhile, the refractive indices of the first and second prisms PSMa and PSMb may be 1.7 or more. Accordingly, total reflection may be performed in the first and second prisms PSMa and PSMb, and thus, the light RI can be transmitted in the direction of the image sensor.

The refractive indices of the first and second prisms PSMa and PSMb may be less than 1.7, and a reflective coating layer may be formed on a reflective surface of the second prism PSMb, the second substrate PSMb. Accordingly, total reflection can be performed in the first and second prisms PSMa and PSMb, and thus, the light RI can be transmitted in the direction of the image sensor.

Accordingly, the image sensor 520, the lens apparatus 593, and the first prism module 592a may be arranged side by side in one direction, while the second prism module 592b is arranged to cross the first prism module 592 a.

Accordingly, the first prism module 592a and the second prism module 592b may be referred to as an L-shaped double prism device 592. In addition, the camera 500a having such a structure may be referred to as an L-type camera.

According to this structure, by the first and

second prism modules

592a and 592b, rotation can occur in the first direction CRa, for example, in the counterclockwise direction ccw based on the first rotation axis Axma, and rotation can occur in the second direction CRb, for example, in the counterclockwise direction ccw based on the second rotation axis Axmb, to perform angle compensation, thereby implementing an Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) function.

For example, in response to the movement of rotating the first prism PSMa by the first angle θ 1 about the first rotation axis Axma and rotating the second prism PSMb by the second angle θ 2 about the second rotation axis Axmb, the first actuator ACTa is configured to rotate the first prism PSMa by the third angle θ 3 in a third direction opposite to the first direction in response to the first control signal Saca, the second actuator ACTb is configured to rotate the second prism PSMb by the fourth angle in a fourth direction opposite to the second direction in response to the second control signal Sacb, the third angle θ 3 may be half the first angle θ 1, and the fourth angle may be half the second angle θ 2. Therefore, a compensation angle of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) becomes small so that the accuracy of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be improved.

In particular, since the angle compensation is performed by using the first actuator ACTa and the second actuator ACTb, there is an advantage in that whether the optical zooming of the lens apparatus 593 is a low magnification or a high magnification is sufficient to compensate only the angle within a given range. Accordingly, the accuracy of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be improved regardless of optical zooming.

In addition, since an optimal spatial arrangement can be achieved in a limited space, the slim camera 500a can be implemented. Therefore, the present invention can be applied to the mobile terminal 100 and the like.

Fig. 5A illustrates that the length of lens apparatus 593 is denoted by Wa, and the length of double prism apparatus 592 is denoted by Wpa, and the height of lens apparatus 593 and double prism apparatus 592 is denoted by ha.

Since the first and second prism modules 592a and 592B in the double prism device 592 are arranged to cross each other, as shown in the mobile terminal 100a of fig. 5B, the moving direction of the incident light RI may be changed twice by the first and second prism modules 592a and 592B, and the image sensor 520 can be arranged at the left side of the mobile terminal 100 a. In particular, the image sensor 520 may be disposed opposite to a side of the mobile terminal 100 a.

Accordingly, the thickness DDa of the mobile terminal 100y may be determined not by the sum (Wa + Wpa) of the lengths of the lens apparatus 593 and the double prism apparatus 592, but by the height ha of the lens apparatus 593 or the double prism apparatus 592 or the height ho of the image sensor.

Therefore, when the height ha of the lens device 593 and the double prism device 592 or the height ho of the image sensor is designed to be low, the thickness DDa of the mobile terminal 100y can be slimly realized. Accordingly, a slim camera 500a having a thin thickness and a mobile terminal having the slim camera 500a may be implemented.

Fig. 6A is a diagram illustrating another example of a camera having a rotatable biprism module in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 6B is a diagram illustrating a mobile terminal having the camera of fig. 6A, and fig. 7 to 10 are diagrams for explaining the camera of fig. 6A.

Referring to the drawings, the camera 600 of fig. 6A may include an image sensor 620, a lens device 693 for transmitting light to the image sensor 620, and a double prism device 692 having a first prism module 692a and a second prism module 692 b.

The camera 600 of fig. 6A is similar to the camera 500a of fig. 5A, but differs in that the first and

second prism modules

692a, 692b of the double prism device 692 are arranged differently. In this case, the differences are mainly described.

In the figure, the image sensor 620, the lens device 693 and the double prism device 692 are illustrated as being arranged sequentially, and light incident on the double prism device 692 is transmitted to the lens device 693 and the image sensor 620.

Specifically, the light from above may be reflected by the reflective surface of the first prism PSMa in the first prism module 692a and may be transmitted to the second prism module 692b, and may be reflected by the reflective surface of the second prism PSMb in the second prism module 692b and may be transmitted to the lens arrangement 693 and the image sensor 520.

That is, unlike fig. 5A, the difference is that the first prism module 692a in the double prism device 692 of fig. 6A is arranged in a forward direction as compared to the second prism module 692 b. Accordingly, the light reflected by the prism modules PSMa in the first prism module 692a may travel in the ground direction or the right direction.

That is, unlike fig. 6A, the image sensor 620, the double prism device 692, and the lens device 693 may be sequentially arranged, and light incident on the lens device 693 may be transmitted to the double prism device 692 and the image sensor 620. Hereinafter, the structure of fig. 6A will be mainly described.

The double prism device 692 may include: a first prism PSMa configured to reflect input light toward a first reflection direction; a first actuator ACTa configured to change an angle of the first prism PSMa about the first rotation axis Axma to change a direction of the first reflection based on the first control signal Saca; a second prism PSMb configured to reflect the light reflected from the first prism PSMa toward a second reflection direction; and a second actuator ACTb configured to change an angle of the second prism PSMb around the second rotation axis Axmb to change the second reflection direction by Sacb based on the second control signal.

The first prism PSMa may include an inner first reflection surface RSa, and the second prism PSMb may include an inner second reflection surface RSb configured to reflect light.

Meanwhile, the refractive indices of the first and second prisms PSMa and PSMb may be less than 1.7, and a reflective coating may be formed on the reflective surfaces of the second prisms PSMb and the second substrate PSMb. Accordingly, total reflection can be performed in the first and second prisms PSMa and PSMb, and thus, the light RI can be transmitted in the direction of the image sensor.

According to this, the image sensor 620, the lens device 693, and the first prism module 692a may be arranged side by side in one direction while the second prism module 692b is arranged to cross the first prism module 692 a.

Thus, the first and

second prism modules

692a, 692b may be referred to as L-shaped double prism devices 692. In addition, the camera 500a having this structure may be referred to as an L-type camera.

According to this structure, by the first and

second prism modules

692a and 692b, rotation may occur in a first direction, for example, in a counterclockwise direction ccw based on the first rotation axis Axa, and rotation may occur in a second direction, for example, in a counterclockwise direction ccw based on the second rotation axis Axb, to perform angle compensation, thereby implementing an Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) function.

In particular, since the angle compensation is performed by using the rotary actuator, there is an advantage in that it is sufficient to compensate only angles within a given range regardless of whether the optical zoom of the lens apparatus 693 is a low magnification or a high magnification. Therefore, the accuracy of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be improved regardless of optical zooming.

In addition, since an optimal spatial arrangement can be achieved in a limited space, the slim camera 600 can be implemented. Therefore, the present invention can be applied to the mobile terminal 100 and the like.

Fig. 6A illustrates that the length of the lens arrangement 693 is denoted by Wb, and the length of the double prism arrangement 692 is denoted by Wpb, and the heights of the lens arrangement 693 and the double prism arrangement 692 are denoted by hb.

Since the first and second prism modules 692a and 692B in the double prism device 692 are disposed to cross each other, as shown in the mobile terminal 100B of fig. 6B, the moving direction of the incident light RI may be changed twice by the first and second prism modules 692a and 692B, and the image sensor 620 can be disposed at the left side of the mobile terminal 100B. In particular, the image sensor 620 may be disposed opposite to a side of the mobile terminal 100 b.

Accordingly, the thickness DDb of the mobile terminal 100y may be determined not by the sum (Wb + Wpb) of the lengths of the lens device 693 and the biprism device 692, but by the height ho of the lens device 693 and the biprism device 692 or the height ho of the image sensor.

Therefore, when the height hb of the lens device 693 and the double prism device 692 or the height ho of the image sensor is designed to be low, the thickness DDb of the mobile terminal 100y can be slimly realized. Accordingly, the slim camera 600 having a thin thickness and the mobile terminal having the slim camera 600 can be realized.

Meanwhile, referring to fig. 7 and 8, the double prism device 692 may include a first prism module 692a and a second prism module 692 b.

The first prism module 692a may include a first prism PSMa; the first prism support PSMHa is configured to fix the first prism PSMa; a first yoke Yka coupled to a rear of the first prism support PSMHa; a first driving magnet DMa coupled to a rear portion of the first yoke Yka; the first coil support CLHa includes a plurality of protrusions protruding toward the first prism support PSMHa, each of the plurality of protrusions includes an opening HSSa, and the opening HSSa defines the first rotation axis Axma.

The first driving coil DCLa may be disposed between the first coil holder CLHa and the first yoke Yka, and the first prism holder PSMHa may include a plurality of bosses BSSa configured to engage with the openings of the plurality of protrusions to allow the first prism PSMa to rotate about the first prism PSMa axis.

Bosses BSSa in both ends of the prism holder PSMa may be coupled with openings HSSa formed in both ends of the coil holder CLHa.

Meanwhile, the driving magnet DMa and the driving coil DCLa in the first prism module 692a may constitute the first rotary actuator ACTa.

For example, in order to compensate for the first-directional motion of the first-directional motion and the second-directional motion sensed by the motion sensor 145, particularly the gyro sensor 145C shown in fig. 3C or 3D, the driving controller DRC may output the first control signal Saca to the first actuator ACTa in the first prism module 692 a.

Specifically, based on the first control signal Saca applied to the driving coil DCLa in the first actuator ACTb, the angle of the first prism PSMa can be changed based on the first rotation axis.

Meanwhile, the first hall sensor HSa may sense a change in the magnetic field in order to check motion information due to the movement of the first prism PSMa. In particular, the first hall sensor HSa may sense an angle change of the first prism PSMa based on the first magnetic field.

In addition, the motion information detected by the first hall sensor HSa, specifically, the magnetic field or the magnetic field change information Shsa may be input to the drive controller DRC.

The drive controller DRC may perform PI control or the like based on the control signal Saca for motion compensation and motion information, in particular, the magnetic field or magnetic field change information Shsa. Therefore, the movement of the first prism PSMa can be precisely controlled.

That is, the driving controller DRC can perform closed loop by receiving the information Shsa detected by the first hall sensor HSa, and can accurately control the movement of the first prism PSMa.

Accordingly, the driving magnet DMa, the prism holder PSMHa, and the prism PSMa may rotate based on the first rotation axis Axa.

Meanwhile, the coil holder CLHa, the driving coil DCLa, and the hall sensor HSa may be fixed without rotating based on the first rotation axis Axa.

As described above, some units in the first prism module 692a may rotate and some units may be fixed, thereby detecting the movement caused by hand shaking based on the magnetic field signal sensed in the hall sensor HSa. In order to perform Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to compensate for the movement of the double prism caused by hand trembling, the driving magnet DMa may be rotated so that the prism PSMa or the like can be rotated. Therefore, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) in the first direction can be accurately performed.

Meanwhile, referring to fig. 8, the second prism module 692b may include a second prism PSMb; a second prism support PSMHb configured to fix the second prism PSMb; a second yoke Ykb coupled to a rear of the second prism support PSMHb; a second driving magnet DMb coupled to a rear portion of the second yoke Ykb; and a second coil support CLHb including a plurality of protrusions protruding toward the second prism support PSMHb, each of the plurality of protrusions including an opening, and the openings defining a second rotation axis Axmb. Accordingly, the second drive magnet DMb, the second prism support PSMHb, and the second prism PSMb can rotate based on the second rotation axis Axmb.

The second driving coil DCLb may be disposed between the second coil support CLHb and the second yoke Ykb, and the second prism support PSMHb may include a plurality of bosses BSSa configured to engage with openings of the plurality of protrusions to allow the second prism PSMb to rotate about the second prism PSMb axis.

The coil support CLHb may have protrusions protruding in the direction of the prism support PSMb at both ends, and openings HSSb formed in the protrusions, respectively. The coil support CLHb can fix the driving coil DCLb.

The prism support PSMb may have protrusions BSSb protruding in the direction of the coil support CLHb at both ends.

Bosses BSSb in both ends of the prism support PSMb may be coupled with openings HSSb formed at both ends of the coil support CLHb.

Meanwhile, the driving magnet DMb and the driving coil DCLb in the second prism module 692b may constitute the second rotary actuator ACTb.

For example, in order to compensate for the second-directional motion of the first-directional motion and the second-directional motion sensed by the motion sensor 145, particularly the gyro sensor 145C shown in fig. 3C or 3D, the drive controller DRC may output the second control signal Sacb to the second actuator ACTb in the second prism module 692 b.

Specifically, based on the second control signal Sacb applied to the driving coil DCLb in the second actuator ACTb, the angle of the second prism PSMb can be changed based on the second rotation axis.

Meanwhile, the second hall sensor HSb may sense a change in the magnetic field in order to check motion information due to the movement of the second prism PSMb. In particular, the second hall sensor HSb may sense an angle change of the second prism PSMb based on the second magnetic field.

In addition, the motion information, in particular, the magnetic field or the magnetic field change information Shsb detected by the second hall sensor HSb may be input to the drive controller DRC.

The drive controller DRC may perform PI control or the like based on the control signal Sacb for motion compensation and motion information, in particular, the magnetic field or magnetic field change information Shsb. Therefore, the movement of the second prism PSMb can be precisely controlled.

That is, the driving controller DRC can perform closed loop by receiving the information Shsb detected by the second hall sensor HSb, and can accurately control the movement of the second prism PSMb.

Accordingly, the driving magnet DMb, the prism support PSMHb, and the prism PSMb may be rotated based on the second rotation axis Axb.

Meanwhile, the coil support CLHb, the driving coil DCLb, and the hall sensor HSb may be fixed without rotating based on the second rotation axis Axb.

As described above, some units in the second prism module 692b may be rotated and some units may be fixed, thereby detecting the movement caused by hand shaking based on the magnetic field signal sensed in the hall sensor HSb. In order to perform Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to compensate for the movement of the double prism caused by hand trembling, the driving magnet DMb may be rotated so that the prism PSMb, etc., can be rotated. Therefore, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) in the second direction can be accurately performed.

For example, as shown in fig. 7, when the first prism PSMa is rotated in the clockwise direction CCW based on the first rotation axis Axa due to hand trembling of the user, the driving controller DRC may control the first prism PSMa, the first sensor magnet SMa, and the like to perform Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to compensate for the movement of the double prism caused by hand trembling by rotating in the counterclockwise direction CCW based on the first rotation axis Axa by using the rotary actuator, particularly, the first driving magnet DMa and the first driving coil DCLa.

In particular, when the first control signal Saca from the drive controller DRC is applied to the first driving coil DCLa in the first actuator ACTa, a lorentz force may be generated between the first driving coil DCLa and the first driving magnet DMa, so that the first driving magnet DMa may be rotated in the counterclockwise direction CCW.

At this time, the first hall sensor Hsa may detect the change of the variable magnetic field by the counterclockwise CCW rotation of the first sensor magnet SMa.

In addition, the drive controller DRC may perform closed loop based on the information Shsa detected by the first hall sensor HSa, thereby enabling more accurate control of the counterclockwise CCW rotation of the first drive magnet DMa.

For another example, as shown in fig. 7, when the second prism PSMb is rotated in the clockwise direction CCW based on the second rotation axis Axb due to hand trembling of the user, the driving controller DRC may control the second prism PSMb, the second sensor magnet SMb, and the like to perform Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to compensate for the double prism motion caused by hand trembling by rotating in the counterclockwise direction CCW based on the second rotation axis Axb using the second rotary actuator, particularly, the second driving magnet DMb and the second driving coil DCLb.

Specifically, when the second control signal Sacb from the drive controller DRC is applied to the second driving coil DCLb in the second actuator ACTb, a lorentz force may be generated between the second driving coil DCLb and the second driving magnet DMb, so that the second driving magnet DMb can be rotated in the counterclockwise direction CCW.

At this time, the second hall sensor Hsb can detect the change of the variable magnetic field by the counterclockwise CCW rotation of the first sensor magnet SMa.

In addition, the drive controller DRC may perform closed-loop based on the information Shsa detected by the second hall sensor HSa, thereby enabling more accurate control of the counterclockwise CCW rotation of the first drive magnet DMa.

As described above, the first and

second prism modules

692a and 692b may be independently driven based on the first and second rotation axes Axa and Axb, respectively, depending on the hand trembling movement. Accordingly, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) of a plurality of directions can be performed quickly and accurately.

Meanwhile, when the first prism PSMa moves at a first angle of the first direction of the first rotation axis Axa, the first actuator ACTa may change the first prism PSMa to a second angle θ 2 in a second direction opposite to the first direction of the first rotation axis Axa, the second angle θ 2 being a half of the first angle θ 1. According to this, although the user's hand-shake motion is generated, the motion compensation may be performed at an angle smaller than the user's hand-shake motion, thereby enabling accurate Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to be performed. Further, power consumption can be reduced.

Meanwhile, when the second prism PSMb moves in the third direction of the second rotation shaft Axb by the third angle θ 3, the second actuator ACTb may change the second prism PSMb to the fourth angle θ 4 in the fourth direction opposite to the third direction of the second rotation shaft Axb, the fourth angle θ 4 being a half of the third angle θ 3. According to this, although the user's hand-shake motion is generated, the motion compensation may be performed at an angle smaller than the user's hand-shake motion, thereby enabling accurate Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to be performed. Further, power consumption can be reduced. This will be described below with reference to fig. 9A to 9C.

Fig. 9A to 9C are diagrams for explaining hand trembling motion and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) according to the hand trembling motion.

Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the image sensor 620, the first prism PSMa, and the front object OBL will be described.

First, fig. 9A illustrates that the first prism PSMa disposed between the front object OBL and the image sensor 620 is fixed when there is no hand trembling motion of the user.

Referring to fig. 9A, the image sensor 620 and the reflection surface SFa of the first prism PSMa may have an angle θ m, and the angle between the reflection surface SFa of the first prism PSMa and the front object OBL may be the same angle θ m. Here, the angle θ m may be about 45 degrees.

According to this, the image sensor 620 may capture light of the front object OBL by the light reflected and input by the reflection surface SFa of the first prism PSMa and convert the captured light into an electrical signal. Therefore, image conversion of the front object OBL can be realized.

Next, fig. 9B illustrates that the first prism PSMa disposed between the front object OBL and the image sensor 620 is rotated by the first angle θ 1 in the counterclockwise direction CCW when the hand trembling of the user of the first angle θ 1 is generated in the counterclockwise direction CCW.

Referring to fig. 9B, the image sensor 620 and the reflection surface SFa of the first rotating prism PSMa may have an angle θ m, but an angle between the reflection surface SFa of the first rotating prism PSMa and the front object OBL may be θ n smaller than the angle θ m.

In other words, the image sensor 620 and the reflection surface SFa of the rotating first prism PSMa have an angle θ m, and the front object OBL is not present in a direction of the angle θ m from the reflection surface SFa of the rotating first prism PSMa.

Therefore, the image sensor 620 cannot capture the light of the front object OBL through the light reflected and inputted by the reflection surface SFa of the first prism PSMa.

Accordingly, the first actuator ACTa may rotate the first prism PSMa in the clockwise direction CW by the second angle θ 2, the second angle θ 2 being half of the first angle θ 1.

Fig. 9C illustrates that the first prism PSMa is rotated in the clockwise direction CW by a second angle θ 2, which is half of the first angle θ 1, in order to perform Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to compensate for the movement of the double prism caused by hand trembling of the user.

Therefore, like fig. 9A, the image sensor 620 and the reflection surface SFa of the first rotating prism PSMa may have an angle θ m, and the angle between the reflection surface SFa of the first rotating prism PSMa and the front object OBL may be θ m.

According to this, the image sensor 620 may capture light of the front object OBL by the light reflected and inputted by the reflection surface SFa of the first prism PSMa and convert the light into an electrical signal. Therefore, the image conversion of the front object OBL can be stably realized by Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) despite the hand trembling.

Fig. 10 is a view of the first prism module 692a of fig. 6A-7 in a downward direction from above the first rotational axis Axa.

According to the prism module 692a of fig. 10, the prism PSMa may be disposed on a first surface of the prism holder PSMHa, and the yoke Yka may be disposed on a second surface, which is a rear surface of the first surface of the prism holder PSMHa. In particular, a first surface of yoke Yka may be disposed on a second surface of prism support PSMHa.

Meanwhile, the sensor magnet SMa may be disposed on an upper side of the yoke Yka, and the hall sensor Hsaz may be disposed separately from the sensor magnet SMa.

That is, in a state where the rotation shaft Axa is positioned in the vertical direction of the floor, the yoke Yka may be arranged around the rotation shaft AXa, the sensor magnet SMa may be arranged separately from the yoke Yka, and the hall sensor Hsa may be arranged separately from the sensor magnet SMa.

At this time, the separation distance may be increased in the order of the yoke Yka, the sensor magnet SMa, and the hall sensor Hsa based on the rotation axis AXa.

Meanwhile, the yoke Yka and the sensor magnet SMa may be spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction of the ground, and the sensor magnet SMa and the hall sensor Hsa may be spaced apart from each other in the horizontal direction.

That is, the spacing direction between the yoke Yka and the sensor magnet SMa and the spacing direction between the sensor magnet SMa and the hall sensor Hsa may cross each other.

Meanwhile, the positions of the hall sensor Hsa and the sensor magnet SMa can be variously modified.

At this time, as mentioned in the description of fig. 6A to 8, when the first prism PSMa is rotated in the first clockwise direction CCW based on the first rotation axis Axa due to hand trembling of the user, the drive controller DRC may control the first prism PSMa, the first sensor magnet SMa, etc. to be rotated in the counterclockwise direction CCW based on the first rotation axis Axa to perform Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to compensate for the movement of the double prism caused by the hand trembling, by using the first rotation actuator, particularly, the first driving magnet DMa and the first driving coil.

In particular, when the first control signal Saca from the drive controller DRC is applied to the first driving coil DCLa within the first actuator ACTa, a lorentz force may be generated between the first driving coil DCLa and the first driving magnet DMa, so that the first driving magnet DMa can be rotated in the counterclockwise direction CCW.

At this time, the first hall sensor Hsa may sense the change of the variable magnetic field by the counterclockwise CCW rotation of the first sensor magnet SMa.

Meanwhile, when the range of the rotation angle of the clockwise direction CW due to the hand trembling is approximately between 10 degrees and-10 degrees, the angle compensation range by the rotation of the counterclockwise direction CCW may be approximately between 5 degrees and-5 degrees which are half of the range of the rotation angle of the clockwise direction CW due to the hand trembling.

Meanwhile, referring to fig. 10, even if the rotation angle of the clockwise direction CW is small when the hand trembling is small, the hall sensor Has can perform accurate detection, thereby improving the angle compensation accuracy of the counterclockwise direction CCW rotation.

Meanwhile, the description of fig. 10 is given based on the first prism module 692a among the first and

second prism modules

692a and 692b of fig. 6A to 8, and can also be applied to the first prism module 692 b. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and can also be applied to the second prism module 692 b.

Meanwhile, the prism apparatus 692 having the first and

second prism modules

692a and 692b described with reference to fig. 6A to 10 can be employed in various electronic apparatuses such as the mobile terminal 100 of fig. 2, a vehicle, a television, a drone, a robot cleaner, and the like.

As apparent from the above description, according to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a prism apparatus including: a first prism configured to reflect input light toward a first reflection direction; a first actuator configured to change an angle of the first prism about the first rotation axis to change the first reflection direction based on a first control signal; a second prism configured to reflect the light emitted from the first prism toward a second reflection direction; and a second actuator configured to change an angle of the second prism about the second rotation axis based on a second control signal to change the second reflection direction. Therefore, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) for the biprism can be achieved. In particular, by independently rotating the biprisms, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be achieved based on multiple axes of rotation.

The first prism includes an inner first reflective surface and the second prism includes an inner second reflective surface configured to reflect light. Therefore, the light from the first prism can be stably transmitted to the second prism.

The first rotational axis of the first prism is perpendicular to the second rotational axis of the second prism. Accordingly, since the optical paths of the first prism and the second prism are different from each other, an L-shaped camera can be realized, and thus a slim camera having a reduced thickness can be realized.

In response to a movement that rotates the first prism by a first angle about the first rotation axis and rotates the second prism by a second angle about the second rotation axis, the first actuator is configured to rotate the first prism by a third angle in a third direction opposite the first direction in response to the first control signal, and the second actuator is configured to rotate the second prism by a fourth angle in a fourth direction opposite the second direction in response to the second control signal, wherein the third angle is half the first angle, and wherein the fourth angle is half the second angle. Therefore, a compensation angle of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) becomes small, so that the accuracy of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be improved.

The prism device further includes: a first hall sensor configured to sense an angle change of the first prism based on the first magnetic field; and a second hall sensor configured to sense an angle change of the second prism based on the second magnetic field. Therefore, the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) of the biprism can be achieved.

The prism device further includes: a first prism holder configured to fix a first prism; a first yoke coupled to a rear of the first prism holder; a first driving magnet coupled to a rear portion of the first yoke; a first coil support including a plurality of protrusions protruding toward the first prism support, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions includes an opening, and wherein the openings define a first rotational axis, wherein the first drive coil is disposed between the first coil support and the first yoke, wherein the first prism support includes a plurality of bosses configured to engage with the openings of the plurality of protrusions to allow the first prism to rotate about the first prism axis. Accordingly, the first driving magnet, the first prism holder, and the first prism can be rotated based on the first rotation axis.

The prism device further includes: a second prism holder configured to fix a second prism; a second yoke coupled to a rear of the second prism holder; a second driving magnet coupled to a rear portion of the second yoke; a second coil support including a plurality of protrusions protruding toward the second prism support, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions includes an opening, and wherein the openings define a second rotation axis, wherein the second drive coil is disposed between the second coil support and the second yoke, wherein the second prism support includes a plurality of bosses configured to engage with the openings of the plurality of protrusions to allow the second prism to rotate about the second prism axis. Accordingly, the second driving magnet, the second prism holder, and the second prism can be rotated based on the second rotation axis.

The refractive indices of the first prism and the second prism are 1.7 or more, and therefore, total reflection can be performed in the first prism and the second prism, and thus, light can be transmitted in the direction of the image sensor.

The refractive indices of the first and second prisms are less than 1.7, and wherein a reflective coating is formed on the reflective surfaces of the first and second prisms. Accordingly, total reflection can be performed in the first prism and the second prism, and thus, light can be transmitted in the direction of the image sensor.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a camera apparatus including: a gyroscope sensor configured to sense movement of the camera device; a double prism device configured to direct input light; a lens arrangement comprising a plurality of lenses configured to adjust to achieve a variable focus; and an image sensor configured to generate an image signal based on the input light, wherein the double prism device includes: a first prism configured to reflect input light toward a first reflection direction; a first actuator configured to change an angle of the first prism about the first rotation axis to change the first reflection direction based on a first control signal; a second prism configured to reflect the light reflected from the first prism toward a second reflection direction; and a second actuator configured to change an angle of the second prism about the second rotation axis based on a second control signal to change a second reflection direction for outputting the light output reflected toward the lens device and the image sensor. Therefore, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) for the biprism can be achieved. In particular, by independently rotating the biprisms, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be achieved based on multiple axes of rotation.

The camera device further includes: a first hall sensor configured to sense an angle change of the first prism caused by the movement based on the first magnetic field; and a second hall sensor configured to sense an angle change of the second prism caused by the movement based on the second magnetic field. Therefore, the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) of the biprism can be achieved.

The camera device further includes: a drive controller configured to generate a first control signal and a second control signal for stabilizing an image captured by the image sensor, wherein the first control signal is based on an angle change caused by the first prism caused by the movement and the second control signal is based on an angle change caused by the second prism caused by the movement. Therefore, the Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) of the biprism can be achieved.

The image sensor receives light corresponding to an object photographed from the double prism device while the image sensor is positioned perpendicular to the photographed object. Therefore, an L-type camera can be realized, and thus a slim camera having a reduced thickness can be realized.

One or more of the plurality of lenses are moved along an axis to achieve a variable focus, and the axis is perpendicular to a direction of the input light entering the first entrance prism surface and the light output from the first prism through the first exit prism surface. Therefore, since the optical paths of the first prism and the second prism are different from each other, an L-shaped camera can be realized, and thus a slim camera having a reduced thickness can be realized.

The camera device further includes a drive controller, wherein: in response to movement of the first prism to rotate the first prism by a first angle about the first axis of rotation and the second prism by a second angle about the second axis of rotation, the drive controller is configured to: the first control signal is generated to cause the first actuator to rotate the first prism by a third angle in a third direction opposite the first direction, and the second control signal is generated to cause the second actuator to rotate the second prism by a fourth angle in a fourth direction opposite the second direction, wherein the third angle is half the first angle, and wherein the fourth angle is half the second angle. Therefore, a compensation angle of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) becomes small, so that the accuracy of Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) can be improved.

The camera apparatus further includes: a first prism holder configured to fix a first prism; a first yoke coupled to a rear of the first prism holder; a first drive magnet of a first driver coupled to a rear portion of the first yoke; a first coil support including a plurality of protrusions protruding toward the first prism support, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions includes an opening, and wherein the openings define a first rotational axis, wherein the first drive coil of the first actuator is disposed between the first coil support and the first yoke, wherein the first prism support includes a plurality of bosses configured to engage with the openings of the plurality of protrusions to allow the first prism to rotate about the first prism axis. Accordingly, the first driving magnet, the first prism holder, and the first prism can be rotated based on the first rotation axis.

The camera device further includes: a second prism holder configured to fix a second prism; a second yoke coupled to a rear of the second prism holder; a second driving magnet of a second actuator coupled to a rear portion of the second yoke; a second coil support including a plurality of protrusions protruding toward the second prism support, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions includes an opening, and wherein the openings define a second rotation axis, wherein the second drive coil of the second actuator is disposed between the second coil support and the second yoke, wherein the second prism support includes a plurality of bosses configured to engage with the openings of the plurality of protrusions to allow the second prism to rotate about the second prism axis. Accordingly, the second driving magnet, the second prism holder, and the second prism can be rotated based on the second rotation axis.

In the foregoing, although the present invention has been described with reference to the exemplary embodiments and the accompanying drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, but various modifications and changes can be made by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention claimed in the following claims.

Claims

1. A prism apparatus for a camera apparatus, the prism apparatus comprising:

a first prism configured to reflect input light towards a first reflection direction;

a first actuator configured to change an angle of the first prism about a first rotation axis to change the first reflection direction based on a first control signal;

a second prism configured to reflect light reflected from the first prism toward a second reflection direction; and

a second actuator configured to change an angle of the second prism about a second rotation axis to change the second reflection direction based on a second control signal,

wherein the first and second prisms are arranged to cross each other,

wherein a moving direction of input light input to the first prism is changed twice by the first prism and the second prism,

wherein:

in response to movement to rotate the first prism by a first angle in a first direction about the first axis of rotation and to rotate the second prism by a second angle in a second direction about the second axis of rotation, wherein the second direction intersects the first direction,

the first actuator is configured to rotate the first prism by a third angle in a third direction opposite the first direction in response to the first control signal,

the second actuator is configured to rotate the second prism by a fourth angle in a fourth direction opposite the second direction in response to the second control signal,

wherein the third angle is half of the first angle, and

wherein the fourth angle is half of the second angle.

2. The prism device of claim 1, wherein the first prism comprises an internal first reflective surface and the second prism comprises an internal second reflective surface, the internal first and second reflective surfaces configured to reflect the light.

3. The prism assembly of claim 2, wherein:

the first prism is configured to receive the input light through a first entrance prism surface and output the input light reflected from the interior first reflective surface through a first exit prism surface; and is

The second prism is configured to receive the reflected light through a second entrance prism surface and output the reflected light reflected from the interior second reflective surface through a second exit prism surface.

4. The prism arrangement of claim 3, wherein the first and second prisms are configured such that the first exit prism surface faces the second entry prism surface.

5. The prism arrangement of claim 1, wherein the first rotational axis of the first prism is perpendicular to the second rotational axis of the second prism.

6. The prism assembly of claim 1, further comprising:

a first Hall sensor configured to sense an angle change of the first prism based on a first magnetic field; and

a second Hall sensor configured to sense a change in angle of the second prism based on a second magnetic field.

7. The prism assembly of claim 6, wherein the first actuator includes a first drive magnet and a first drive coil.

8. The prism assembly of claim 7, further comprising:

a first prism holder configured to hold the first prism;

a first yoke coupled to a rear of the first prism support;

a first drive magnet coupled to a rear of the first prism holder;

a first coil support including a plurality of protrusions protruding toward the first prism support, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions includes an opening, and wherein the openings define the first rotational axis;

wherein the first driving coil is arranged between the first coil holder and the first yoke,

wherein the first prism support comprises a plurality of bosses configured to engage with the openings of the plurality of protrusions to allow the first prism to rotate about the first prism axis.

9. The prism assembly of claim 8, wherein the second actuator includes a second drive magnet and a second drive coil.

10. The prism assembly of claim 9, further comprising:

a second prism holder configured to hold the second prism;

a second yoke coupled to a rear of the second prism support;

a second drive magnet coupled to a rear portion of the second yoke;

a second coil holder including a plurality of protrusions protruding toward the second prism holder, wherein each of the plurality of protrusions includes an opening, and wherein the openings define the second rotation axis,

wherein the second driving coil is arranged between the second coil support and the second yoke,

wherein the second prism support comprises a plurality of bosses configured to engage with the openings of the plurality of protrusions to allow the second prism to rotate about the second prism axis.

11. The prism device of claim 1, wherein the first and second prisms have a refractive index of 1.7 or greater.

12. The prism device of claim 1, wherein the refractive indices of the first and second prisms are less than 1.7, and

wherein a reflective coating is formed on reflective surfaces of the first and second prisms.

13. A camera device, comprising:

a gyroscope sensor configured to sense movement of the camera device;

a double prism device configured to direct input light;

a lens arrangement comprising a plurality of lenses configured to be adjusted to achieve a variable focus; and

an image sensor configured to generate an image signal based on the input light,

wherein the double prism arrangement comprises a prism arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 12.